Introduction
Once a company has defined its activities, departments, and entities related to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives, it is crucial to complement this structure by assigning appropriate stakeholders to each item of the reporting perimeter.
Types of Stakeholders
The stakeholders involved in ESG activities can be of different types, and it is essential to understand the roles they play. Based on the Mapping File, there are two main roles to consider:
Manager or Director - Validator / Decision-Maker
Expected Contribution:
Participate in key meetings and decisions throughout the project.
Review and verify the accuracy and consistency of the ESG data submitted by contributors.
Ensure compliance with internal standards and regulatory requirements.
Who:
Top or middle management
Compliance officers
Department heads with oversight functions in ESG reporting
CSRD internal project manager by default
Data Owner
Expected Contribution:
Provide expertise on specific activities of the company.
Collect, input, and update ESG data.
Ensure data accuracy and completeness at the initial stages.
Who:
Data analysts
Business owners
Sustainability managers
Operational staff involved in data generation and reporting
Timing of Stakeholder Identification
Identifying all relevant stakeholders before the project kick-off is crucial. This step ensures that the right people are included in the initial meetings, particularly Validators and Decision-Makers, to onboard them effectively into the project.
Best Practices for Involving Stakeholders
It is important to note that not all stakeholders need to be involved in every meeting. The most critical aspect is ensuring that a decision-maker or manager is available to coordinate with the company’s project manager. This individual will then liaise with their respective teams to ensure the necessary tasks are completed.
Generally, only the project team and Validators/Decision-Makers should be invited to the main meetings, including the kick-off, results presentation, and specific follow-up meetings. Contributors, such as Data Owners, should be managed directly by the company representatives rather than being included in every meeting.
Conclusion
Assigning the right stakeholders to ESG activities is a foundational step in ensuring the success of your project. By carefully identifying and involving Managers, Decision-Makers, and Data Owners at the appropriate stages, you can streamline the project process and achieve your ESG goals efficiently.
For further guidance on stakeholder mapping, refer to our resources mentioned earlier, or consult with our ESG support team to ensure that all necessary roles are covered.