The last quarter is the moment to plan for 2026
As 2025 draws to a close, the final quarter is a great time to review what worked this year and plan smartly for 2026. In environment and sustainability, demand for specialist skills remains strong. Teams that prepare now will move faster in the new year.
What we are seeing in Environment and Sustainability
Demand has been steady across environmental management, compliance and permitting, with continued growth in carbon reduction, ESG reporting, responsible sourcing and circular economy. More organisations are moving sustainability from a reporting requirement to a driver of commercial value. That shift is creating opportunities for professionals who can turn strategy into credible delivery.
Confidence has been mixed. Budget scrutiny and policy uncertainty have made some candidates more selective. Job security and organisational stability matter. Good people are available, but processes move best when hiring teams are decisive and well prepared.
Typical timelines in 2025
This year, well-run processes have been completed in around 12 to 16 weeks from initial brief to start dates. A typical flow looks like this:
Week 1 to 2: Market mapping and shortlist agreed
Weeks 2 to 6: Interviews, usually two stages for most roles and three for senior posts
Week 7: Offer, acceptance and references
Weeks 7 to 16: Depending on notice period served, with onboarding prep in parallel
If you want someone starting in early Q1 or Q2 2026, beginning conversations now keeps you ahead of competing organisations.
How to get ahead before year-end
Align on the brief: Be clear on outcomes for 2026 and the capability needed to deliver them.
Streamline stages: Two interviews will secure most mid to senior hires without unnecessary delay.
Pre-book interview time: Hold slots in diaries to keep momentum.
Warm the market: Discreet outreach now means you meet the right people as soon as budgets are confirmed.
Consider interim support: Short-term specialists can bridge gaps or accelerate projects while permanent hiring is completed.
Get in touch
At Irwin and Colton, we can support you to build high-performing environment and sustainability teams. Whether you are growing your function or planning your next move, we would be happy to help.
Contact Consultant Jess Rowe in our Environment and Sustainability team.
Jessica.Rowe@irwinandcolton.com or +44 (0)1923 432 693.