Real Assets Sustainability US - Investment Management - Associate / Senior Associate

Morgan Stanley • New York, NY

4d • $120,000 - $150,000

About The Position

This Associate role will support the development and implementation of Sustainability initiatives across the global Real Assets platform (9 funds), with a primary focus on real estate (approximately 90%). The role sits at the center of a broad network of stakeholders, working across ~10 internal teams and numerous external partners including consultants, engineers, data providers, and ~50+ third-party property managers globally to drive Sustainability performance, regulatory compliance (including SFDR), and asset-level value creation. It requires the ability to manage multiple initiatives simultaneously across a global portfolio, coordinating internal and external stakeholders to deliver results in a fast-paced environment. The ideal candidate is proactive, highly organized, and execution-focused. They will be comfortable operating with limited direction, synthesizing complex technical information into clear, executive-level communication, and driving initiatives forward across diverse teams. We are looking for someone who is outcome-oriented, collaborative, and energized by making things happen across a dynamic global investment platform.

Requirements

• Undergraduate or graduate degree in business, finance, sustainability, environmental studies, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience
• At least 4+ years of experience in a fast-paced, multi-faceted role, preferably within sustainability or environmental functions in a real estate or real assets organization with global exposure
• Strong understanding of key Sustainability topics relevant to Real Assets, e.g., energy, renewables, climate risk, etc.
• Strong research and analytical skills, with ability to synthesize complex information and present conclusions clearly and effectively
• Marketing and communication expertise, with ability to develop clear Sustainability communications and investor-facing materials
• Experience with Sustainability reporting frameworks and regulations such as PRI, GRESB, SFDR, and EU Taxonomy
• Highly organized, detail-oriented, accountable, and outcomes-focused with strong project management skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines in a dynamic environment
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with ability to engage and influence internal/external stakeholders
• Collaborative team player with strong interpersonal skills and a demonstrated ability to work cross-functionally and build consensus across teams globally

Nice To Haves

• Experience managing or mentoring junior team members and coordinating external consultants is a plus

Responsibilities

• Implement Sustainability strategies across the Real Assets global portfolio (90% focus on real estate) throughout entire investment lifecycle
• Oversee and coordinate execution of Sustainability initiatives, such as internal and external reporting, disclosure, benchmarking, and asset-level initiatives to support implementation of operational Sustainability initiatives across portfolio (e.g., energy efficiency, solar, shadow meters, GBC, energy ratings, etc.)
• Lead integration of Sustainability practices across the real estate investment lifecycle, from acquisition due diligence through asset management
• For new acquisitions, partner with acquisitions team to conduct Sustainability due diligence, review and quality check findings, and ensure Sustainability considerations are included in Investment Committee materials
• During the hold period, partner with asset management teams, property managers, and external partners to develop and implement asset-level Sustainability action plans and integrate initiatives into asset business plans
• Oversee utility and Sustainability data collection, validation, and analysis processes across global real estate portfolios, coordinating with internal and external teams (e.g., asset managers, property managers, operating partners, external vendors (e.g., tool providers), etc.) to ensure data accuracy, consistency and coverage
• Lead external Sustainability reporting aligned with third-party guidelines (e.g., GRESB, INREV Sustainability Reporting Guidelines, SFDR disclosures, UN PRI, UK Stewardship Code)
• Manage and complete ongoing investor Sustainability inquiries/DDQs across 9 funds globally
• Support ongoing fundraising efforts by responding to Sustainability-related due diligence requests
• Prepare presentation materials and internal talking points for investor meetings
• Conduct asset-level climate-related risk assessments and complete portfolio-wide analysis leveraging climate risk tools and the Carbon Risk Real Estate Monitor (CRREM) across MSREI funds
• Develop asset-level resilience plans in collaboration with external consultants and asset managers. Engage with insurance team as needed
• Stay abreast of global Sustainability regulations and standards, ensuring portfolio’s compliance and advising on potential impacts to the portfolio
• Prepare and lead quarterly regional executive Sustainability Councils
• Prepare Sustainability presentation and status update materials for senior management
• Represent the firm in selected industry initiatives and working groups
• Source or develop and deliver content to educate investment teams (e.g., annual trainings, newsletters)
• Serve as a central Sustainability point of contact, acting as the “central Sustainability program officer,” coordinating across acquisitions, asset management, portfolio management, and other teams to ensure alignment on priorities and execution of Sustainability initiatives
• Responsible for keeping the Head of Sustainability for Global Real Assets regularly informed on Sustainability initiatives, priorities, and key developments across the global portfolio
• Oversee junior team members by allocating responsibilities, managing workload, ensuring deadlines are met, and supporting daily responsibilities to support implementation of Sustainability initiatives
• Manage Sustainability consultants, including developing scopes of work and contracts, overseeing appointments and performance, ensuring deadlines are met, and maintaining a preferred supplier list

Benefits

• Ample opportunity to move about the business for those who show passion and grit in their work.
• Attractive and comprehensive employee benefits and perks in the industry.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level