ESG Data and Digitalization Lead

Syngenta Group is one of the world’s biggest agricultural technology companies, with roots going back more than 250 years. With more than 59,000 employees, operating in more than 100 countries, the company strives to transform food production through Regenerative Agriculture - a science-driven, technology-enabled approach to improve soil, deliver high productivity and high-quality food, help fight climate change and restore lost biodiversity. Syngenta Group, which is registered in Shanghai, China, and has its management headquarters in Switzerland, draws strength from its four business units: Syngenta Crop Protection, headquartered in Switzerland; Syngenta Seeds, headquartered in the United States; ADAMA®, headquartered in Israel; and Syngenta Group China. Together, these businesses provide industry-leading ways to serve customers around the world.

We are seeking a Group ESG Data and Digitalization Lead to spearhead our ESG reporting transformation journey. This strategic position sits at the critical intersection of ESG, operations, finance, and IT. Your mission will be to establish best in class ESG reporting and data management practices.

As a key architect of our ESG data and digital future, you will be responsible for designing and implementing robust data governance frameworks, strengthening control mechanisms, and leading digital transformation initiatives in close collaboration with key internal and external stakeholders. Your role will be instrumental in elevating our ESG reporting to financial-grade standards while leveraging technologies like AI and advanced analytics.

We all have a critical role to play and add value. Here is how this role will help:

• Lead Group wide data governance and controls of ESG reporting to align with financial reporting standards
• Strengthen our governance, define and streamline roles and responsibilities to ensure efficient workflows in compliance with Group policies
• Own and maintain our Internal Control Framework
• Implement rigorous oversight and develop scalable assurance framework
• Support the project management of ESG Reports, and coordinate processes and operational aspects of external assurance for ESG disclosures
• Be the primary contact person for Internal Audit and drive the implementation of internal audit recommendations
• Lead the development of ESG data catalogues and establishment of data lineage
• Lead the Group’s long-term digitalization of ESG reporting by designing a strategy that streamlines operations, drives efficiency, ensures data integrity, and delivers consistent multi-platform reporting that meets global regulatory requirements.
• Drive the implementation of the digitalization of ESG processes and data solutions and work across the Group and Business Units to ensure alignment
• Support the development and rollout of AI-enabled tools and automation across our ESG data ecosystem aligned with the Group’s overarching AI strategy
• Collaborate with IT, Finance, Functions and Operational teams to accelerate ESG data digitalization to improve operational efficiency
• Contribute to the implementation of ESG reporting frameworks across BUs and listed companies, with guidance provided where needed
• Lead the design and development of dashboards and analytics tools in cooperation with functions
• Support the enhancement of strategic risk management frameworks to identify, evaluate and address emerging sustainability challenges
• Support the roll-out the ESG-Legal operating model

At Syngenta we are highly people focused – we look for professionals who are engaged, collaborative and excellent in execution. Leaders are expected to communicate effectively, develop teams and lead by example. Our industry and our function are changing rapidly so we are looking for new team members with a strong desire to develop themselves. 

You will be a great fit if you have:

• BSc or MSc degree in accounting, finance, economics, IT, engineering, or related fields
• 6–8 years of experience in financial reporting, accounting, audit, or compliance
• Background in an audit firm, consulting and/or complex multinational organizations
• Strong understanding of data governance and control frameworks
• Experience with SOX 404 compliance and COSO Internal Control Framework
• Strong interest or experience in IT, digital tools, and systems integration
• Knowledge of AI solutions and applications
• Experience in organizational change initiatives and digital transformation projects
• Experience with project management
• Advanced stakeholder management skills, able to work with both executives and frontline teams
• Advanced analytical and problem-solving skills
• Fluent English language knowledge
• The ability to work autonomously and make decisions with minimal supervision

Nice to have: 

• Understanding of or hands-on experience with ESG reporting frameworks and standards is a plus, but not required
• Knowledge of tools like SAP, Enablon, SharePoint or Novisto
• Experience with data visualization tools
• Experience in people leadership and mentoring 
• International work experience or exposure to multiple markets
• Chinese language skills

Our efforts to become a really good place to work:

• Dynamic and international team with great atmosphere
• Possibilities to learn and grow
• High quality office environment
• Possibility of working from home 

Syngenta is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate in recruitment, hiring, training, promotion or any other employment practices for reasons of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, sexual orientation, marital or veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status.

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