Why ESG Careers in India Are Booming
India is undergoing a massive shift in how businesses think about sustainability. Investors, regulators, and consumers are demanding greater accountability on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) performance. At the same time, climate change is intensifying risks for companies from supply chain disruptions to financial losses.
This has opened up a strong demand for professionals who can bridge finance, sustainability, and risk management. ESG careers in India are no longer niche; they are becoming mainstream opportunities for finance graduates, engineers, and consultants alike.
What Does an ESG Career Look Like?
An ESG career in India can take many forms. Companies, consulting firms, rating agencies, and even startups are hiring ESG talent. Here are some common ESG job roles:
- ESG Analyst / Associate – evaluating companies on ESG performance
- Sustainability Consultant – guiding firms on reporting and strategy
- Climate Risk Analyst – assessing financial risks linked to climate events
- ESG Reporting Specialist – handling disclosures like BRSR, GRI, SASB
- ESG Data Scientist – using analytics to track sustainability metrics
How to Build an ESG Career in India
If you are wondering how to build an ESG career, here are the steps most professionals follow:
- Develop core ESG professional skills
- Knowledge of sustainability frameworks (GRI, SASB, TCFD)
- Financial analysis with an ESG lens
- Climate risk analytics and scenario modelling
- Strong communication for reporting and stakeholder engagement
2. Get trained and certified
Courses like the CFA Institute Certificate in ESG Investing or specialised ESG certifications can set you apart. They also show employers that you understand both finance and sustainability.
3. Gain practical exposure
Start with internships, project work, or consulting projects in sustainability, risk, or CSR. Even volunteering in environmental or social initiatives can strengthen your profile.
Careers in Climate Risk Analytics
While ESG is broad, one of the fastest-growing niches is climate risk analytics. Companies and banks want to know how extreme weather, regulatory changes, or carbon pricing could impact their portfolios.
Roles in this space include:
- Climate Risk Consultant
- Portfolio Climate Stress Tester
- Climate Policy Analyst
If you’re from a data, finance, or risk background, this area offers strong opportunities.
ESG vs CSR Career: What’s the Difference?
Many professionals confuse ESG with Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). The difference lies in scope and accountability:
- CSR: Voluntary initiatives focused on philanthropy or community impact.
- ESG: Broader and integrated into core business strategy. ESG factors directly affect financial performance and investment decisions.
For career growth, ESG offers a wider range of roles and global recognition.
ESG Salaries in India
Compensation is another question many ask. While ranges vary by role, experience, and sector, ESG salaries in India are competitive with mainstream finance roles.
- Entry-level ESG analysts: ₹6-10 LPA
- Mid-level consultants/managers: ₹12-25 LPA
- Senior specialists/directors: ₹30 LPA+
As demand outpaces supply, salary growth is expected to be strong in the coming years.
ESG Training & Certification
If you’re serious about building an ESG career, structured training helps. ESG training and certification programs provide credibility and practical frameworks. The ESG certificate is one of the most recognised globally.
Learn more about ESG courses and certifications here: ESG Certification with Fintelligents.
Conclusion
Building a career in ESG and climate risk is about more than landing a job; it’s about shaping the future of finance and sustainability. With India’s corporate sector aligning with global sustainability goals, ESG careers in India offer opportunities that are impactful, future-proof, and financially rewarding.
FAQs
Q1. What skills are needed for an ESG career?
A: You’ll need knowledge of sustainability frameworks, ESG reporting standards, financial analysis, and climate risk modelling.
Q2. Is ESG a good career in India?
A: Yes. With regulatory pushes like SEBI’s BRSR and global investor focus, ESG jobs are growing rapidly in India.
Q3. How much do ESG professionals earn in India?
A: Entry-level ESG analysts earn around ₹6-10 LPA, with senior roles exceeding ₹30 LPA.
Q4. Do I need a finance background for ESG?
A: Not always. Finance, engineering, data analytics, and sustainability backgrounds all have entry points into ESG roles.
Q5. Which certification is best for ESG?
A: The CFA Institute Certificate in ESG Investing is globally recognised, but other ESG certifications also add value.