On June 24, Bain & Co. presented the results of its Executive Pulse on Sustainability & Innovation during an online webinar. The initiative was supported by Egon Zehnder and AmCham as well as AmCham’s Sustainability & Innovation Committee.
The Executive Pulse brings together insights from a set of conversations with leading business executives in the Netherlands. How are leaders navigating the sustainability transformation, and in particular: how do they deliver change and create value through innovation? While the world is facing successive disruptions – from COVID-19 to inflation to geopolitics – sustainability and ESG continue to be themes throughout, especially for companies in Europe. All are adapting to comply; some are seeking to accelerate growth and competitive advantage.
Jenny Davis-Peccoud, Head of the Global Sustainability & Responsibility Practice at Bain & Co. and Chair of AmCham’ Sustainability & Innovation Committee, delivered the presentation. She addressed the following four fundamental questions that were reflected upon in the Pulse:
- How fundamental will the ESG transformation be for my company: evolution vs. reinvention?
- How does this create value for my business and drive innovation?
- How do we ensure a deep transformation, coordinated with our other efforts?
- How can I navigate uncertainties around the specific direction and pace of change from ESG?
Ms. Davis-Peccoud shared four categories of reflections. First, ESG as an existential disruption. The disruption is here but there is much more to come. Carbon remains the torchbearer for ESG. The ‘war for talent’ is catalyzing the ESG’s delivering speed. Secondly, ESG as an opportunity, as opposed to (simply) a threat. Two-thirds of CEOs consider ESG to be a top-three strategic priority. ESG is driving the next "reinvention" of the core, as well as an "Engine2" for many. ESG leaders set "purpose" goals that exceed external expectations. Thirdly, the 3 ways to capture value: bass and high notes can be identified, magic can be found in the front-line, and the hourglass should be broken. While standards are being developed, ESG's role in decision-making must be identified. Lastly, top tips to transform were shared. They included: (1) aligning ESG aspirations with business imperatives, (2) driving ESG from the top but also cross-functionally, (3) planning long-term, but taking risks and (4) moving fast and partnering for success.
After the presentation, there was time for Q&A with more insights from Ms. Davis-Peccoud.
AmCham cordially thanks Jenny Davis-Peccoud for presenting the results of the Executive Pulse, the Sustainability & Innovation Committee and Egon Zehnder for their support and all who joined for their participation in the webinar.
