Virtual: Evolving ESG Considerations

ESG continues to be a hot topic for boards and investors though the discussion is quickly evolving.  Join our three experts for a moderated discussion that will consider the impact of ESG in the context of  board formation and refreshment, how employee demands should be balanced, and the potential impact of new SEC disclosure requirements.

Program Summary by Ivy Estabrooke

Last week I had the pleasure of moderating NACD Utah’s virtual program, Evolving ESG Considerations with esteemed panelists Alyse Forcellina, Helle Bank Jorgensen, and Rob Clyde. The discussion covered all three pillars of ESG with a heavy emphasis on the human part of the G. Some key takeaways:

• Defining diversity by demographics is being reconsidered with a renewed focus on diversity of thought, experience, and skills for evaluating board composition.
• The need for specialized knowledge and expertise (e.g., cybersecurity, AI, geopolitics) can be fulfilled between management and the board. If there are gaps in the management team, the board can round out these perspectives or an advisory board may be useful to fill gaps.
• Continued upskilling of board directors is critical for the board to be able to provide insight and foresight as part of strategy oversight.
• Rapidly emerging technologies and changes in workforce practices in particular (e.g., post-COVID workforce expectations) require a continuously learning board.

To hear more listen to our discussion, check out the NACD Utah Chapter’s YouTube Channel.