ESG Analyst: salary, responsibilities, and education
An ESG analyst is a financial and strategic expert who evaluates how companies perform on Environmental, Social and Governance criteria to assess long-term risks, opportunities and ethical impact. Their role goes beyond traditional financial analysis: they study climate policies, carbon footprint, human-capital practices, supply-chain ethics, board diversity and regulatory compliance to determine a firm’s sustainability performance. ESG analysts use data models, corporate disclosures and industry benchmarks to score companies, guide responsible investment decisions and support corporate sustainability strategies. They work in banks, asset-management firms, consulting companies and large corporations. Their insights help investors align portfolios with sustainability goals, anticipate future risks and identify businesses positioned for long-term value creation.
What is an ESG Analyst ?
As a financial expert, the ESG analyst evaluates companies using environmental, social, and governance criteria. These ESG factors are increasingly important to investors and are now key considerations in investment decisions. In the context of the global shift toward a sustainable economy, the ESG analyst's role is essential. In addition to data collection and analysis, their main responsibilities include assessing risks and opportunities, writing ESG analysis reports, communicating with companies, and keeping track of evolving practices—particularly European regulations related to social and environmental responsibility. ESG analysts are employed by various types of organizations, primarily in the financial sector. Banks rely on their expertise to evaluate risks associated with loans and other financing.
They can also work for asset management firms, helping guide investment decisions. ESG analysts are also recruited by consulting firms specializing in CSR or responsible finance to support clients in their decision-making.
A key expertise in sustainable finance
Companies today are increasingly assessed based on non-financial performance indicators such as energy consumption, waste management, and greenhouse gas emissions. ESG analysts provide crucial insights in this context, helping value the most responsible companies through their non-financial analysis.
Difference between ESG and SRI Analysts
In finance, ESG and SRI (Socially Responsible Investment) are often confused, but there is a key distinction. The ESG analyst focuses on evaluating companies based on environmental, social, and governance criteria.
The SRI analyst, on the other hand, comes in after the ESG analysis. They use ESG data to make socially responsible investment decisions. Their roles are therefore complementary.
What are the main responsibilities of an ESG Analyst ?
While responsibilities may vary depending on the company and industry, several core tasks are common across the board:
- Collecting and verifying ESG data: Gathering data from various sources and ensuring its reliability;
- Evaluating ESG performance: Analyzing data to assess a company’s ESG performance, identifying risks and opportunities, and benchmarking against competitors;
- Writing ESG analysis reports: Summarizing data, assessing companies, and providing tailored recommendations to investors;
- Advising investors: Presenting ESG analysis findings, answering investor queries, and participating in sustainable finance events;
- Monitoring ESG practices: Staying up to date on regulations and ESG trends, and updating assessment methodologies accordingly.
What skills and qualities are required ?
To excel as an ESG analyst, several technical competencies are needed:
- Strong knowledge of financial analysis techniques;
- Mastery of environmental, social, and governance data;
- Proficiency with office tools (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, etc.) and ESG-specific analysis software;
- Understanding of ESG regulations and reporting standards;
- Excellent command of English, regardless of the country of practice.
Personal attributes are just as important for success in this role:
- Analytical mindset to grasp complex issues, identify risks, and assess companies based on social and governance criteria;
- Attention to detail in data collection and analysis;
- Curiosity to stay informed on the latest in sustainable finance and regulation;
- Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, to effectively present findings to investors and companies, and make a positive impact.
How to improve ESG analyst skills ?
ESG analysts need strong analytical and financial skills to assess corporate performance and integrate ESG factors into investment decisions. Key competencies include ESG integration (evaluating environmental, social and governance risks and opportunities), financial performance analysis, data interpretation, sustainability reporting, and familiarity with regulatory frameworks. Strong communication skills are also essential to translate insights into clear recommendations for stakeholders.
How to become an ESG Analyst ?
What certifications are available for ESG analyst ?
Several certifications help ESG analysts strengthen their expertise. The most recognized is the EFFAS Certified ESG Analyst (CESGA), a comprehensive program focused on ESG integration, financial analysis, and reporting standards. Other relevant training includes the CFA Institute Certificate in ESG Investing, SASB FSA Credential, and courses from bodies like the GRI for sustainability reporting. These programs provide structured learning, practical tools, and globally recognized credentials to support careers in responsible finance and ESG analysis.
What is the salary of an ESG analyst?
The remuneration for an analyst esg position varies considerably depending on experience, sector of activity, and location. In terms of experience, here are the salary ranges in France:
- Junior (0 to 3 years): gross annual salary between €35,000 and €45,000;
- Experienced (3 to 8 years): remuneration is between €45,000 and €60,000 gross per year;
- Senior (8 years and above): ESG analysis experts can expect a salary ranging from €60,000 to €90,000 gross per year.
Among the sectors offering the highest salaries, the financial markets sector (rating agencies, investment banks, etc.) generally tops the list. The retail, energy, and consulting sectors can also offer attractive salaries.
In terms of location, salaries are generally higher in Paris and the Paris region, followed by other major French cities. For those wishing to work internationally, certain countries where sustainable finance is more developed may also be of interest.
What are the career prospects for an ESG analyst?
The career path of an ESG analyst opens up many opportunities. There is no shortage of job offers, particularly due to the talent shortage.
- Senior consultant
- ESG research manager
- SRI asset manager
- CSR director
This job market is booming as ESG issues become increasingly important. The skills of these finance professionals are increasingly in demand in various sectors.
Conclusion
Becoming an ESG analyst means choosing a dynamic career at the intersection of finance, sustainable development, and corporate social responsibility. This role requires the ability to analyze environmental, social and governance criteria, assess sustainable risks, and support institutional investors and companies in integrating ESG considerations into business practices, risk management, and financial reporting. With rising demand across the industry — from venture funds to banks and consulting firms — ESG investment skills and certified training such as CESGA or the CFA ESG certificate help professionals stand out at entry and senior level. As climate change, human rights, environmental impact and public policy continue shaping the economy, ESG analysts play a key role in responsible investing and sustainable investment strategies. For students and professionals seeking meaningful impact, strong career growth, and attractive pay, this field offers real potential. To learn, improve, and continue building your expertise, programs like emlyon’s accredited MSc prepare future managers to lead in ESG reporting, policy, and sustainable business transformation.