Tell us about your professional experience before discovering the Corporate Governance Institute.

I am a Finance Manager at Witherslack Group, where my responsibilities include overseeing financial management and reporting. 

Over time, my role expanded to encompass ESG-related tasks such as ESG investor reporting, ensuring ESG regulatory compliance, measuring the organization’s carbon footprint, and developing our ESG strategy and communications. This experience allowed me to develop a deep understanding of the interplay between financial performance and sustainable practices. 

However, I sought to enhance my knowledge and strategic approach to ESG, which led me to pursue the diploma offered by the Corporate Governance Institute.

What challenges or opportunities were you facing in your career or on your board before taking our course?

Before starting the course, I faced several challenges and opportunities in my role such as navigating the evolving ESG regulatory landscape and ensuring the organisation remained compliant amidst increasing complexity, developing a robust ESG strategy that aligned with investor expectations while addressing the organisation’s unique operational and sustainability goals and measuring and reporting our carbon footprint accurately, which required integrating ESG metrics into existing financial and operational systems. I recognised that expanding my expertise in ESG through formal education could help me address these challenges more effectively and capitalise on the opportunities for strategic growth and innovation.

Why did you choose to study for the Diploma in ESG with us to help with these challenges/opportunities?

I chose to study for the Diploma in ESG with the Corporate Governance Institute because of its comprehensive, practical, and industry-focused approach to ESG. The diploma directly addressed the challenges I faced in my role, such as navigating complex ESG regulations, developing effective sustainability strategies, and improving ESG reporting and communication. The Corporate Governance Institute is well-regarded for its focus on governance and leadership, which aligned with my goal of integrating ESG into strategic decision-making.

Can you describe any particular elements of the course that stood out to you or made a significant impact?

The case studies and real-world examples provided were particularly valuable. They demonstrated how organisations successfully implement ESG strategies and addressed challenges, making it easier to translate theory into actionable steps for my role.

As carbon footprint measurement is a key aspect of my responsibilities, the detailed guidance on calculating, interpreting, and communicating emissions data was directly applicable to my work.

The course introduced frameworks and tools that were instrumental in structuring the ESG strategy I’ve been developing. These frameworks provided clarity and focus, ensuring our approach aligned with both regulatory requirements and stakeholder expectations.

Overall, the practical, real-world focus of the course significantly enhanced my ability to contribute to and lead ESG initiatives within my organisation.

How has completing this course influenced your career, leadership approach, or governance or ESG skills?

The course has enhanced my credibility and confidence as an ESG professional. I am now better equipped to lead ESG initiatives, communicate effectively with stakeholders, and align our ESG strategy with investor and regulatory expectations. 

It has given me a clear understanding of ESG regulations, frameworks, and reporting standards, enabling me to ensure compliance and anticipate future changes as well as the enhanced ability to articulate ESG performance and strategy to investors, and other stakeholders through clear, concise, and impactful reporting.

What did you find most beneficial about studying with the Corporate Governance Institute?

The programme covered a wide range of ESG topics, from regulatory compliance and sustainability strategy to carbon measurement and stakeholder engagement. I particularly valued the practical tools and frameworks provided, which I could implement immediately in my role.

The ability to access materials at my convenience and engage in live sessions made it easier to balance learning with work commitments.

In summary, studying with the Corporate Governance Institute was beneficial because it combined expert insights, practical tools, and a supportive environment to help me build the skills and confidence needed to excel in my ESG responsibilities.