ESG Product & Strategy Development (6-12 month FTC)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: ESG Product & Strategy Development (6-12 month FTC) Company: Legal & General Investment Management (LGIM) Location: London, England, United Kingdom Job Type: Full-time, Fixed-Term Contract (6-12 months) Category: Product Development & Strategy (within Asset Management, with a strong ESG focus) Date Posted: October 8, 2025 Experience Level: Mid-Senior Level (5+ years in Investment Management) Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the strategic development and design of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) investment products and propositions across a diverse fund range.
• Serve as a senior ESG subject matter expert, providing critical technical guidance and strategic insights across the organization to drive responsible investment initiatives.
• Orchestrate and coordinate cross-functional teams using robust project management methodologies to successfully deliver complex product initiatives from inception to launch.
• Ensure rigorous adherence to product governance processes and maintain compliance with evolving regulatory standards within the investment management landscape.
• Actively engage with a wide array of internal and external stakeholders, including clients, to ensure ESG product strategy is closely aligned with market demands and client needs.
• Continuously monitor industry trends, competitor activities, and emerging ESG themes to foster product innovation and maintain a competitive edge.
• Collaborate closely with operational teams to guarantee the seamless and efficient implementation of ESG features and requirements within existing and new products.
• Present product strategy, development updates, and performance metrics at internal committees and fund boards, effectively communicating vision and progress.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title suggests "Product & Strategy Development," the responsibilities heavily lean into product management and strategic execution within a specialized ESG domain. The "FTC" (Fixed-Term Contract) nature implies a project-driven focus, likely aimed at accelerating specific ESG initiatives within LGIM's broader asset management strategy. The role requires a blend of deep ESG expertise, product lifecycle management acumen, and strong project leadership.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Spearhead the end-to-end development and design of innovative ESG investment products and comprehensive propositions, ensuring they align with LGIM's responsible investment mandate and client demand.
• Function as a primary senior ESG subject matter expert, offering technical expertise and strategic direction to various business units, including investment teams, sales, and compliance.
• Effectively coordinate and manage cross-functional project teams, leveraging advanced project management tools and techniques to ensure timely and successful delivery of product initiatives.
• Uphold and enhance product governance frameworks, ensuring all ESG product development adheres to internal policies, ethical standards, and relevant regulatory requirements (e.g., SFDR, TCFD).
• Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with key internal stakeholders (e.g., Portfolio Managers, Sales, Legal, Risk) and external parties (e.g., clients, regulators, industry bodies) to foster alignment and drive ESG product strategy.
• Conduct thorough market analysis, including monitoring ESG trends, regulatory changes, and competitor offerings, to identify opportunities for product innovation and differentiation.
• Partner with operational teams across front, middle, and back office to ensure the effective implementation, operationalization, and ongoing support of ESG product features and reporting capabilities.
• Prepare and deliver compelling presentations to senior management, internal committees, and fund boards, articulating ESG product strategies, development progress, and performance outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core responsibilities emphasize a strategic leadership role in ESG product creation, requiring not only deep subject matter expertise but also strong project management and stakeholder influence capabilities. The focus on "diverse fund range" suggests involvement across various asset classes and investment strategies, demanding adaptability and broad market knowledge.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent professional experience, demonstrating foundational analytical and communication skills.
• A strong academic background in finance, economics, environmental science, sustainability, or a related field is highly advantageous.

Experience:

• Minimum of 5 years of progressive experience within the investment management industry, with a clear focus on product development, strategy, or related functions.
• Proven track record of successfully leading complex product development initiatives from ideation through to launch and lifecycle management.

Required Skills:

• Deep ESG Knowledge: Comprehensive understanding of ESG investment strategies (e.g., integration, impact investing, thematic investing), fund structures, and the evolving global regulatory environments (e.g., SFDR, TCFD, CSRD).
• Product Development Lifecycle: Demonstrated ability to manage the entire product lifecycle, including market research, concept development, design, business case creation, regulatory approval, launch, and ongoing management.
• Stakeholder Engagement & Communication: Exceptional interpersonal, influencing, and communication skills, with the proven ability to engage effectively with diverse internal and external stakeholders at all levels.
• Project Management: Proven experience in managing complex, multi-stakeholder projects, utilizing project management methodologies and tools to ensure successful, on-time delivery.
• Strategic Thinking: Ability to develop and articulate a clear, forward-looking product strategy, aligned with market trends, client needs, and the company's overall business objectives.
• Responsible Investing Passion: A genuine passion for and commitment to responsible investing principles and their practical application within financial products.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with specific ESG frameworks and data providers (e.g., MSCI, Sustainalytics, Bloomberg ESG).
• Familiarity with various fund structures (e.g., UCITS, OEIC, US Mutual Funds) and their operational implications for ESG integration.
• Experience presenting to fund boards or senior investment committees.
• Knowledge of asset origination and public/private market investment solutions.
• Understanding of pension risk transfer or institutional retirement solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "ideally 5+ years" suggests that candidates with more extensive experience will be highly competitive, particularly if they have a strong track record in ESG product innovation within a large asset management context. The emphasis on regulatory environments and stakeholder engagement points to a need for a candidate who is both technically proficient and politically adept within a corporate structure.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• ESG Product Case Studies: Demonstrable examples of ESG products or propositions developed, including the rationale, target market, key features, and outcomes.
• Strategy Documentation: Evidence of strategic thinking, such as market analysis reports, product strategy documents, or white papers related to ESG investing.
• Project Management Examples: Documentation or descriptions of complex projects managed, highlighting methodologies used, stakeholder management, and successful delivery.
• Regulatory Compliance Frameworks: Examples of how regulatory requirements were incorporated into product design or managed throughout the product lifecycle.
• Stakeholder Engagement Plans: Evidence of successful engagement strategies with diverse groups, showcasing ability to align interests and drive consensus.

Process Documentation:

• Product Development Workflow: Clear articulation of a structured product development process, emphasizing phases from ideation to post-launch analysis, with a specific focus on ESG integration.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration Protocols: Examples of established processes for ensuring effective collaboration between product development, investment, sales, legal, risk, and operations teams.
• Risk and Governance Procedures: Documentation outlining how product risks are identified, assessed, and mitigated, and how governance processes are applied throughout the product lifecycle.
• Market Intelligence Gathering: Description of systematic approaches used to monitor industry trends, competitor activities, and client needs to inform product strategy and innovation.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role like this, a portfolio is crucial. Candidates should be prepared to showcase not just the what (the products) but the how (the strategic thought process, the project execution, and the stakeholder management). Demonstrating an understanding of the entire product lifecycle, from ideation through to operationalization and compliance, will be key.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Given the location (London, UK), the fixed-term nature (6-12 months), the seniority (5+ years experience), and the specialized ESG and product strategy focus within a leading financial institution like LGIM, a competitive salary is expected.

• Estimated Range: £80,000 - £120,000 per annum (pro-rata for FTC).
• Explanation: This range is based on typical compensation for Senior Product Managers/Strategists with specialist ESG knowledge in the London financial services sector. Factors influencing the precise offer would include the candidate's specific experience, the urgency of the role, and the duration of the contract. Salary will be structured as an annual rate but paid on a pro-rata basis for the contract duration.

Benefits:

• Performance-Related Bonus: Participation in an annual, performance-based bonus plan, reflecting individual and company achievements.
• Share Schemes: Eligibility for valuable share schemes, offering long-term equity participation.
• Pension Contribution: Generous employer pension contribution, supporting long-term financial security.
• Life Assurance: Comprehensive life assurance coverage.
• Healthcare Plan: Access to a healthcare plan (for permanent employees, but potentially pro-rated or considered for FTC depending on policy).
• Holiday Allowance: At least 25 days of annual leave, plus public holidays, increasing to 26 days after two years of service. Option to buy and sell holiday days.
• Family Leave: Competitive family leave provisions.
• Electric Car Scheme: Option to participate in a tax-efficient salary sacrifice scheme for a new electric car (for permanent employees, but potential for FTC consideration).
• Discounts: Access to various discounts, including LGIM's own products and a range of high street and online retailers.
• Wellbeing Focus: Access to well-designed office spaces prioritizing employee wellbeing and collaboration.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time working hours are typically 40 hours per week, aligned with industry norms.
• Flexibility: The company emphasizes outcomes over attendance and is open to discussing flexible working options, including part-time, term-time, and job shares, where feasible and customer demand allows. This role, being a contract, may have specific expectations but the general company culture supports flexibility.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimation is crucial for a contract role as it directly impacts the candidate's financial planning. The benefits package, while generous, may have some distinctions for FTC employees versus permanent staff (e.g., healthcare, electric car scheme), which candidates should clarify during the process. The emphasis on flexible working is a significant positive for attracting talent in a competitive market.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Financial Services / Asset Management (specifically Investment Management). Company Size: Large (Legal & General is a major global investor with significant asset management capabilities). Founded: 1836. Legal & General has a long-standing history, providing a stable and established foundation, while also being a forward-thinking organization committed to responsible investment.

Team Structure:

• Operations Team Aspect 1: The Strategic Product Projects team likely comprises individuals with diverse backgrounds in product development, strategy, ESG analysis, and project management, focused on driving key initiatives within LGIM.
• Operations Team Aspect 2: This role reports into a senior management position within the Asset Management division, likely a Head of Product Strategy or similar, with close collaboration across various functional departments.
• Operations Team Aspect 3: Strong cross-functional collaboration is essential, involving close working relationships with investment teams, sales and marketing, legal and compliance, risk management, and operational/technology teams to bring ESG products to market.

Methodology:

• Operations Process 1: Data-driven decision-making is paramount, utilizing market intelligence, client feedback, and ESG performance data to inform product strategy and development.
• Operations Process 2: A structured, yet agile, approach to product development and project management, ensuring clear milestones, risk mitigation, and stakeholder alignment.
• Operations Process 3: Emphasis on responsible investment principles, integrating ESG factors systematically into product design and ensuring alignment with ethical and regulatory standards.

Company Website: https://www.legalandgeneral.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Legal & General's long history combined with its modern focus on ESG and responsible investment provides a unique cultural backdrop. The company's scale means that operational roles often involve navigating complex structures but also offer significant opportunities for impact and professional development. The emphasis on "building a better society" is a core tenet that permeates their ESG product development.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at a senior individual contributor or manager level within product development and strategy, specifically focused on ESG. It requires significant autonomy and the ability to influence strategic direction.

Reporting Structure: The role will report to a senior leader within LGIM Asset Management, likely overseeing product strategy or development. This provides exposure to high-level decision-making and strategic discussions within the firm.

Operations Impact: This position has a direct and significant impact on LGIM's ESG product offerings, influencing client acquisition, retention, and the firm's overall reputation as a responsible investor. Success in this role contributes to both financial performance and the company's societal mission.

Growth Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Deepen expertise in ESG investment strategies, regulatory frameworks, and product management best practices within a leading global asset manager.
• Industry Exposure: Gain invaluable experience working on cutting-edge ESG product development in a dynamic and rapidly evolving market, potentially leading to further opportunities in sustainable finance.
• Leadership Potential: Demonstrate leadership capabilities in managing cross-functional projects and influencing strategic decisions, which can pave the way for permanent roles or senior contract positions within LGIM or the wider industry.
• Networking: Build a robust professional network within LGIM and the broader financial services and ESG communities.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a fixed-term contract, growth is often measured by the depth of experience gained and the ability to deliver tangible results within the contract period. The candidate will be expected to hit the ground running and make an immediate impact, with the potential for the contract to be extended or lead to a permanent role if successful and business needs align.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid work model, blending remote work with in-office collaboration. LGIM offices are described as redesigned spaces focused on connection and collaboration, prioritizing wellbeing.

Office Location(s):

• Primary Location: One Coleman Street, London, EC2R 5AA, UK. This is a prime City of London location, offering excellent transport links and proximity to financial sector hubs.
• Flexibility: While the role is based in London, the hybrid model allows for a balance between in-office presence and remote work.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: Offices are designed to foster collaboration, with spaces conducive to team meetings, brainstorming sessions, and cross-functional discussions essential for product development.
• Operations Tools & Technology: Access to LGIM's standard suite of business and financial analysis tools, project management software, and communication platforms. Specific ESG data platforms may also be utilized.
• Operations Team Interaction: Regular opportunities to interact with colleagues from various departments, including investment, sales, legal, and operations, facilitating knowledge sharing and project alignment.

Work Schedule: While core hours are expected, the company culture supports flexible working discussions. The nature of product development often requires focused periods of work, but the hybrid model and emphasis on outcomes provide a degree of autonomy.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid model is standard for many professional roles in London. Candidates should confirm the expected office attendance frequency with the hiring manager, as this can vary. The emphasis on collaborative spaces suggests that in-office days will be valuable for team interaction and strategic alignment.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Process Step 1 (Initial Screening): Application review focusing on CV and cover letter for alignment with ESG expertise, product development experience, and project management skills. A brief phone screen with HR or a recruiter to assess basic fit and interest.
• Process Step 2 (Hiring Manager Interview): In-depth discussion with the hiring manager to explore experience in ESG product strategy, leadership capabilities, and understanding of the investment management landscape. Case study or scenario-based questions to assess problem-solving and strategic thinking.
• Process Step 3 (Cross-Functional/Panel Interview): Meeting with key stakeholders from investment, sales, or operations teams to evaluate collaboration skills, ability to influence, and understanding of cross-functional dependencies. Presentation element may be introduced here.
• Process Step 4 (Final Interview/Assessment): Potentially a presentation of a past ESG product development project or a strategic proposal, followed by a final interview with a senior leader to assess cultural fit, strategic vision, and overall suitability for the FTC.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Structure Your Case Studies: For each ESG product development example, clearly outline the problem statement, your role and responsibilities, the strategic approach taken, the specific ESG considerations, the project management execution, key challenges overcome, and measurable outcomes (e.g., AUM growth, client adoption, impact metrics).
• Quantify Impact: Wherever possible, use metrics to demonstrate success. This could include Assets Under Management (AUM) growth for new products, client conversion rates, cost savings achieved through process optimization, or impact metrics if applicable to the ESG product's mandate.
• Highlight ESG Expertise: Clearly articulate your understanding of ESG principles, relevant regulations, and how you integrated these into product design, strategy, and communication.
• Showcase Strategic Thinking: Demonstrate your ability to identify market opportunities, develop a compelling product vision, and articulate a clear roadmap for execution.
• Tailor to LGIM: Research LGIM's current ESG initiatives and product offerings. Frame your experience and portfolio examples to show how you can directly contribute to their existing and future goals.

Challenge Preparation:

• ESG Market Trends: Be ready to discuss current trends in ESG investing, potential future developments, and how these might impact product strategy.
• Regulatory Landscape: Prepare to discuss key ESG regulations (e.g., SFDR, TCFD) and their implications for product development and reporting.
• Product Strategy Scenarios: Anticipate questions about how you would approach developing a new ESG product in a specific market segment or how you would address a decline in AUM for an existing ESG fund.
• Stakeholder Management Scenarios: Prepare examples of how you have managed conflicting stakeholder interests or influenced decision-making in complex environments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for a senior, specialized role like this will be rigorous. A strong portfolio that clearly articulates impact and strategic thinking, especially regarding ESG, will be a significant advantage. Candidates should prepare to "walk through" their portfolio with confidence, highlighting their specific contributions and the strategic rationale behind their actions.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Proficiency with tools like Jira, Asana, Trello, or Microsoft Project for tracking timelines, tasks, and team progress.
• Collaboration Platforms: Experience with Microsoft Teams, Slack, or similar for real-time communication and team coordination.
• Presentation Software: Advanced skills in PowerPoint or Google Slides for creating compelling presentations for internal committees and fund boards.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Financial Data Platforms: Familiarity with platforms that provide market data, fund performance analytics, and investment research (e.g., Bloomberg Terminal, Refinitiv Eikon).
• ESG Data Providers: Experience using or interpreting data from leading ESG rating agencies and data providers (e.g., MSCI, Sustainalytics, Bloomberg ESG, FTSE Russell).
• Business Intelligence Tools: Exposure to BI tools like Tableau, Power BI, or Qlik Sense for creating dashboards and analyzing product performance metrics.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems: While not a direct sales role, understanding of CRM principles and data management within systems like Salesforce is beneficial for understanding client needs and product adoption.
• Workflow Automation Tools: Familiarity with concepts of workflow automation to streamline product implementation and operational processes.
• Document Management Systems: Experience with systems for storing and managing product documentation, regulatory filings, and compliance materials.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific tool requirements aren't explicitly listed, a strong candidate will demonstrate familiarity with the types of tools commonly used in investment product development, project management, and ESG analysis. Highlighting experience with ESG-specific data platforms and market analytics tools will be particularly advantageous.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity & Responsibility: A strong commitment to ethical conduct, transparency, and acting in the best interests of clients and society, particularly in the context of ESG investing.
• Collaboration & Teamwork: A belief in the power of collective effort, fostering an environment where diverse perspectives are valued and teams work together effectively to achieve common goals.
• Innovation & Forward-Thinking: A drive to continuously improve and innovate, staying ahead of market trends and developing cutting-edge solutions, especially in the rapidly evolving ESG space.
• Customer Focus: A dedication to understanding and meeting the needs of clients, delivering high-quality products and services that provide value and contribute to their financial goals.
• Data-Driven Decision Making: An approach that prioritizes evidence-based decisions, leveraging data and analysis to inform strategy and measure impact.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: A proactive approach to working across departments, building strong relationships, and ensuring seamless communication and alignment on product initiatives.
• Process Improvement Culture: An openness to feedback and a continuous drive to optimize workflows and processes for greater efficiency and effectiveness.
• Knowledge Sharing: A willingness to share expertise and insights, fostering a learning environment where best practices are disseminated and collective knowledge grows.

📝 Enhancement Note: LGIM's stated commitment to "building a better society" and "responsible investment" suggests a culture that values purpose-driven work. Candidates who can articulate how their professional values align with these principles will likely resonate well during the interview process.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Rapidly Evolving ESG Landscape: Keeping pace with evolving ESG regulations, market trends, and investor expectations requires continuous learning and adaptability.
• Cross-Functional Alignment: Navigating the complexities of a large organization to gain buy-in and coordinate diverse teams with potentially competing priorities.
• Data Quality & Standardization: Ensuring access to reliable and consistent ESG data for product development, reporting, and performance analysis can be a significant challenge.
• Balancing Commercial and Impact Goals: Effectively integrating ESG principles while ensuring product viability and financial success requires strategic acumen and careful product design.
• Fixed-Term Contract Dynamics: Adapting quickly to a new environment and delivering significant impact within a defined, shorter timeframe.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized ESG Expertise: Deepen knowledge in specific ESG themes, regulatory nuances, and impact measurement methodologies.
• Product Strategy Acumen: Gain hands-on experience in developing and launching complex financial products within a leading global asset manager.
• Industry Networking: Build valuable connections with peers, thought leaders, and stakeholders across the ESG and investment management sectors.
• Project Leadership: Enhance skills in leading cross-functional teams, stakeholder management, and strategic project execution in a dynamic setting.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges inherent in ESG product development are significant but also present substantial growth opportunities. Candidates who can demonstrate resilience, a proactive approach to problem-solving, and a commitment to continuous learning will be well-suited for this role.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for developing a new ESG investment product, from initial concept to market launch. What are the key considerations at each stage?" (Focus on structured methodology, ESG integration, and stakeholder management.)
• "How would you assess the viability and market demand for a new ESG-themed fund in the current regulatory and competitive landscape?" (Demonstrate market analysis skills, understanding of client needs, and regulatory awareness.)
• "Imagine you need to gain buy-in for a new ESG product strategy from a skeptical investment committee. How would you approach this, and what evidence would you present?" (Highlight influencing skills, data-driven argumentation, and understanding of investment decision-making.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What specific ESG initiatives or products at LGIM do you find most compelling, and why?" (Shows research and genuine interest in the company's strategy.)
• "How do you align your professional approach with a company's stated values, such as building a better society and responsible investment?" (Connect your personal values and work ethic to LGIM's mission.)
• "Describe a time you had to collaborate with a team that had different priorities or perspectives. How did you ensure a successful outcome for the project?" (Assess teamwork and conflict resolution skills.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Concise & Impactful: Select 2-3 of your most relevant and impactful ESG product development or strategy projects. Aim for a 10-15 minute presentation slot per project.
• Storytelling with Data: Frame each project as a narrative: the challenge, your strategic approach, the execution, the results (quantified where possible), and your key learnings.
• Focus on ESG Integration: Clearly articulate how ESG factors were embedded into the product design, strategy, or lifecycle management.
• Demonstrate Strategic Thinking: Explain the market rationale, competitive positioning, and long-term vision for the products you present.
• Be Prepared for Deep Dives: Anticipate questions about specific details of your projects, including decision-making processes, challenges faced, and how you measured success.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparing specific, quantifiable examples from your past experience will be critical. The interviewers will be looking for evidence of strategic thinking, deep ESG knowledge, strong project management capabilities, and the ability to influence and collaborate effectively within a large organization.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided application link on SmartRecruiters.
• Resume Optimization: Tailor your CV to prominently highlight your experience in ESG investment strategies, product development lifecycle management, stakeholder engagement, and project management within the financial services industry. Use keywords from the job description.
• Portfolio Preparation: Curate a concise portfolio showcasing 2-3 key ESG product development or strategy projects. Ensure each case study includes clear objectives, your role, the strategic approach, ESG integration points, challenges, and measurable outcomes.
• Company Research: Thoroughly review Legal & General's website, particularly their Asset Management division and ESG commitments. Understand their current product offerings, responsible investment approach, and recent news.
• Interview Practice: Prepare to discuss your portfolio in detail and practice answering common interview questions related to ESG strategy, product development, and stakeholder management, focusing on providing specific, data-backed examples.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

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