Interested in moving into a sustainability role? Keen to get more involved in sustainability within your current NHS role?
Our new NHSScotland Sustainability Careers Guide is packed full of insights and practical advice to help and inspire you to make sustainability part of your every day at work.
What will I find in the guide?
We’re all increasingly aware of the need to ensure our health service is environmentally, socially and financially sustainable.
And we know that good care is environmentally sustainable care – that becoming more sustainable allows us to improve health outcomes, save money and adapt to future challenges.
We all have a part to play in this, so whether you want to move into a sustainability-focused role or discover ways you can help to play your part in your current role, the careers guide can help.
The sustainability careers guide looks at:
- what skills are important for sustainability careers
- ways you can get involved in sustainability – building your experience while contributing to a more sustainable and resilient future
- training and upskilling opportunities – including getting involved with sustainability networks within NHSScotland and beyond
The guide also hears from people who have made the move into sustainability from a range of backgrounds – like Jimmy and Natasha.
Jimmy’s story
Jimmy Ramsay (Head of Sustainability, NHS Fife): “I began my career as a time-served electrician. Over the years, I’ve progressed through a variety of positions within NHS Fife, including supervisor, estates officer, and estates manager, before taking on my current role as Head of Sustainability.
“My advice to anyone interested in sustainability is that it’s never too late or too early to get involved.
“Witnessing our collective achievements in response to the climate emergency is incredibly fulfilling. As a resident of Fife, leading change within NHS Fife is particularly meaningful to me, as it not only addresses climate concerns but also helps our board enhance efficiency in multiple areas.”
Natasha’s story
Natasha Kumar (Sustainability Manager – Energy Transition, NHSScotland Assure, NHS National Services Scotland): “This is my first role in the healthcare sector and I’m proud to contribute to such a vital mission. As well as my sustainability studies, I’ve spent time working in the offshore renewables industry, supported charities implement climate change projects and worked on a range of energy-related projects at Ofgem, the energy regulator.
“My first sustainability role involved helping everyone from music festival organisers to charities achieve their sustainability goals.
“Sustainability is a vast field with opportunities for everyone, regardless of their background. My advice is stay curious – be open to exploring different areas. And what matters most is a genuine passion for making a difference, whether it’s through big-picture projects or small, everyday actions like reducing waste or saving energy.”
Find out more
Read the sustainability careers guide or contact nss.sustainabilityscotland@nhs.scot