Why CFOs should be driving ESG

As ESG becomes a greater focus on how companies are shaping their short- and long-term strategies, it’s important to consider where this responsibility sits.

While ESG has historically been driven by General Counsel or a Chief Sustainability Officer, there are several ways that CFOs can drive this forward, particularly as many of the key measures of a successful ESG strategy already sit within this function’s capabilities.  

CFOs can provide clear reporting to both internal and external stakeholders on how to ensure their organisation’s ESG strategies are aligned with financial success by effectively capturing data that considers risk management, cost optimisation and control.

Using this, CFOs can integrate performance management frameworks with the organisation’s Net Zero commitments and KPI metrics to encourage change.  

Presenting where and how ESG is integrated through the business to ensure value in its initiatives is critical to its success.

This becomes especially relevant as key stakeholders – such as investors, government regulators, suppliers, customers, and talent – are increasingly expecting companies to address how these risks are being considered in their reporting.

Who is responsible for driving ESG in your business?

https://www.pwc.com.au/assurance/esg-reporting/cfos-and-esg-a-growing-role.html