Background

The growing emphasis on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors has shifted from being a peripheral concern to a central strategic priority for organizations worldwide. In today’s rapidly changing business landscape, ESG risks have the potential to significantly impact a company’s long-term value and reputation. As global markets evolve, stakeholders increasingly demand transparency and accountability regarding a company’s ESG practices, with investors, customers, regulators, and society closely scrutinizing the sustainability of corporate operations. Companies that fail to manage these risks effectively may face reputational damage, financial losses, and regulatory penalties, while those that proactively address ESG challenges are better positioned to create sustainable value.

Sustainability reporting, which involves the disclosure of an organization’s ESG performance, has become a crucial mechanism for driving informed decision-making. High-quality reporting not only enhances stakeholder trust but also aids in identifying and mitigating potential risks that could undermine long-term value creation. As global standards for ESG disclosures become more stringent, corporate leaders must navigate the complexities of ensuring that sustainability reporting is accurate, transparent, and aligned with regulatory requirements. The board and senior management play a pivotal role in establishing governance structures, setting clear sustainability objectives, and ensuring that reporting processes are integrated into the organization’s broader strategic framework.

Effective ESG risk management and sustainability reporting require an integrated approach, with the board and senior management at the helm of these initiatives. Boards must possess the necessary knowledge and foresight to evaluate and address ESG risks across all business operations. Senior management is responsible for implementing strategies that mitigate ESG risks while driving innovation and growth aligned with sustainability goals. This collaboration ensures that ESG factors are embedded in organizational decision-making, creating long-term value for shareholders and other stakeholders.

Target Audience:

• Board Members, Directors and Senior Management, including CEOs, CFOs, CIOs, and other executive leaders that are responsible for strategic decision-making, governance, and risk management.

Learning Outcomes

• Learn to design and implement ESG risk management frameworks aligned with corporate strategy for proactive risk identification and mitigation.
• Master compliance with global sustainability reporting standards to ensure transparent, accurate, and comprehensive disclosures.
• Understand the board and senior management’s role in leading ESG initiatives and integrating sustainability into strategic decisions.
• Develop the ability to incorporate ESG risks and opportunities into business strategies for long-term value and competitive advantage.

Learning Objectives

• Recognise and analyse key ESG risks impacting corporate value, focusing on financial performance, reputation, and stakeholder trust.
• Ensure proficiency in sustainability reporting frameworks like GRI, SASB, and TCFD for transparent ESG disclosures.
• Strengthen board oversight of ESG initiatives with effective governance mechanisms.
• Guide Board members in incorporating ESG into strategic plans and risk management for a holistic sustainability approach.
• Equip Directors and Boards in communicating ESG performance and sustainability goals to stakeholders clearly and effectively.

Programme Focus Area

1. Overview of ESG Risks, Sustainability Reporting and Their Impact on Corporate Value
2. Global ESG Regulatory Landscape, Reporting Standards and Compliance
3. Governance and Oversight of ESG: The Role of the Board and Senior Management
4. Strategic Integration of ESG into Business Operations, Investment Decisions and Risk Management
5. Developing Sustainability Reporting Frameworks and Disclosure: Creating a Culture of Accountability and Transparency
6. ESG Metrics, Risk Mitigation & Impact Assessment, Opportunity Creation and Performance Measurement

Stakeholder Engagement and Communication of ESG Performance:  Board and Management Responsibilities