KPMG Sustainability Graduate Programme: Shaping the Future of Responsible Business

KPMG Sustainability Graduate Programme 2025| This program is designed to equip the next generation of professionals with the skills and knowledge required to drive sustainable business practices and make a positive impact on society.

In an era where sustainability and corporate responsibility have become paramount, organizations worldwide are recognizing the need to integrate environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles into their core operations.

KPMG, a global leader in professional services, is at the forefront of this movement with its Sustainability Graduate Programme.

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KPMG’s Sustainability Graduate Programme

The KPMG Sustainability Graduate Programme is a comprehensive training initiative aimed at recent graduates who are passionate about sustainability and eager to pursue careers in this dynamic field. The programme offers a blend of practical experience, professional development, and academic learning, providing participants with a solid foundation in sustainability consulting.

Due to the heightened awareness around Sustainability and its increasing importance for all organisations, there has been an increase in Sustainability considerations and inclusions in proposals and potential client liaisons throughout the business. We are looking for dynamic, diverse graduates to join our Sustainability Services team.

Key responsibilities:

• Executing Sustainability audit and assurance programmes, tests and procedures
• Delivery of sustainability assurance and reporting engagements including preparation of adequate working papers to support Sustainability consulting outputs and conclusions
• Identifying weak/problem areas and developing effective corrective action plans
• Report writing and quality outputs
• Client liaison and communication throughout various stages of a project
• Undertaking site visits with the team
• Strong technical analytical skills, methodical with strong emphasis on attention to detail
• Well-developed investigative, evaluative and problem solving ability
• Ability to multitask
• Basic responsibilities in respect of supporting KPMG implementation of its ESG strategy including research and participation in development of Sustainability thought leadership/leading practice/proposals.

Skills and attributes required for the role:

• Keen interest in ESG and Sustainability and appreciation of the United Nations sustainable development goals, Global Reporting Initiative Standards, other industry and technical developments, assurance and reporting framework would be advantageous
• A high performing team player who can work independently and contribute to a positive and cohesive team environment
• Strong attention to detail/methodical/analytical
• Self-starter, presentable, professional and confident
• Report writing, good communication and presentation skills
• Target/results driven with a sense of urgency to get things done
• Desire to improve the status quo. Persistent, persuasive and tenacious
• Willing to travel
• Ability to:
• Be agile and adapt to changing environments, spot problems, and trace to root cause to recommend solutions
• Develop innovative and creative solutions to problems/initiates smarter ways of working and improving processes
• Work in a fast-paced, dynamic team and environment

Programme Structure

The KPMG Sustainability Graduate Programme is typically structured over a period of one to two years, encompassing several key components that collectively ensure a well-rounded experience for participants.

1. Induction and Training

The programme begins with an induction phase, during which graduates are introduced to KPMG’s values, culture, and sustainability practices. This phase includes:

• Orientation Sessions: Providing an overview of KPMG’s operations, sustainability strategy, and the role of sustainability consultants.
• Technical Training: Covering key sustainability topics such as climate change, circular economy, sustainable finance, ESG reporting, and stakeholder engagement.
• Soft Skills Development: Focusing on essential skills such as communication, teamwork, project management, and critical thinking.

2. Rotations and Project Work

A unique feature of the KPMG Sustainability Graduate Programme is the rotation system, which allows participants to gain experience across different areas of sustainability consulting. These rotations may include:

• Climate Risk and Decarbonization: Working on projects related to carbon footprint analysis, climate risk assessment, and the development of decarbonization strategies.
• Sustainable Supply Chain: Assisting clients in improving the sustainability of their supply chains through practices such as responsible sourcing, waste reduction, and supplier engagement.
• ESG Reporting and Assurance: Helping organizations enhance their ESG reporting practices and ensuring compliance with relevant standards and regulations.
• Sustainable Finance: Supporting clients in integrating ESG factors into their investment decisions and developing sustainable finance strategies.

During these rotations, graduates work on real client projects, applying their knowledge to address complex sustainability challenges and deliver tangible results.

3. Mentorship and Support

Mentorship is a core component of the programme, providing graduates with guidance and support from experienced professionals within KPMG. This includes:

• One-on-One Mentorship: Each graduate is paired with a mentor who provides personalized advice, feedback, and career guidance.
• Peer Support Networks: Graduates have access to a network of peers and alumni, facilitating knowledge sharing and collaboration.
• Regular Check-Ins: Structured check-ins with mentors and programme managers to discuss progress, set goals, and address any challenges.

4. Professional Development

KPMG places a strong emphasis on continuous learning and development. Throughout the programme, graduates have access to various opportunities for professional growth, including:

• Workshops and Seminars: Covering emerging trends, industry developments, and advanced sustainability topics.
• Certifications and Qualifications: Support for obtaining relevant certifications such as the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI), Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB), and others.
• Networking Events: Opportunities to connect with industry leaders, sustainability experts, and potential clients.

5. Capstone Project

Towards the end of the programme, graduates undertake a capstone project that allows them to apply their accumulated knowledge and skills to a significant sustainability challenge. This project typically involves:

• Problem Identification: Selecting a relevant and impactful sustainability issue to address.
• Research and Analysis: Conducting thorough research and analysis to understand the issue and identify potential solutions.
• Solution Development: Designing and proposing a practical solution, which may include developing strategies, tools, or frameworks.
• Presentation and Implementation: Presenting the findings and recommendations to KPMG leadership and clients, and potentially assisting with implementation.

Requirements/Qualifications:

Minimum requirements to apply for the role (including qualifications and experience):

• Relevant honours degree (i.e.): Environmental Science/Management, Chemical Engineering, Social Science, Climate Change/Climate Finance or similar

  Fully Microsoft office competent, specifically Word, Excel and PowerPoint

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Conclusion

The KPMG Sustainability Graduate Programme represents a significant step towards fostering the next generation of sustainability leaders.

By providing comprehensive training, practical experience, and professional development opportunities, the programme equips graduates with the skills and knowledge needed to drive sustainable business practices and create positive societal impact.

As sustainability continues to gain prominence in the corporate world, initiatives like the KPMG Sustainability Graduate Programme are essential in shaping a more sustainable and responsible future.