Energy management professionals lead raft of in-demand roles for 2011, according to Jim Woods, non-exec director at green jobs staffing specialist Acre.

The sustainability and environment recruiter says it has seen a 20% increase in jobs this year. Woods predicts a rise in energy management roles due to energy market reform going through parliament.

Woods told Recruiter: “There will be an increasing number of companies investing in a sustainability function. We estimate that around half the FTSE 350 and equivalents (around 2,000 companies) have a dedicated sustainability function, up from around 10% in 2000. We expect this trend to continue.

“We also expect more specialist roles in the sustainability function – we are seeing increasing numbers of sustainable supply chain analysts and sustainability social media experts.

“Next year will also see demand rise for chief sustainability officers. We define these as board-level dedicated sustainability representatives, and around 5% of the FTSE 100 companies have these positions at present. As an increasing number of companies incorporate sustainability into their core business strategy, these roles will increase.

“Policy strategists will be in demand as the policy landscape strengthens. Policy strategists can deliver increasing returns.”

For more predictions for 2011, see the latest issue of Recruiter.