We are thrilled to invite you to the inaugural edition of The Impact Chat, an innovative forum designed to foster discussion, networking and collaborative growth. Join forward-thinking professionals across sectors to discuss sustainability and its influence on business and society. Each session of The Impact Chat will feature insights from renowned industry experts on a pivotal impact topic, followed by an interactive discussion where you can share your experiences, insights, and questions.
Join session #1 of The Impact Chat to explore how ESG reporting can transcend from a regulatory requirement to a strategic advantage that not only adheres to compliance but propels a business forward. Afterwards the sessions you will be invited for further networking over drinks and snacks.
· Gain an understanding of legal requirements for ESG reporting.
· Cultivate first ideas to develop effective sustainability strategies for future projects and to utilize ESG compliance as a strategic advantage.
· Benefit from the insights of HHL alumni who are experts in the field of sustainability, and impact as well as through questions and comments from our audience.
Verónica Celis Vergara brings over a decade of sustainability management experience in Latin America and Europe, advising companies on ESG risks. In 2023, she became the first Chief Sustainability Officer at the German SME Maurer Rides. Verónica is the founder of Valumia, a start-up automating sustainability reporting and was recognized as a TED Top 35 under 35 Innovator in Latin America.
Caroline Grosch is a seasoned business development expert at the international law firm Reed Smith LLP with over 12 years of experience. In her role, she monitors regulatory ESG-related developments at EUlevel. She works with lawyers across practice groups and jurisdictions to drive progress for clients in the ESG space, including helping them to fulfil regulatory reporting obligations.
AlexanderHertel founded the Public Value Hub, anon-profit offering startup programs on sustainable and social entrepreneurship. Through his second company, Skutek Consulting, he helps organizations in planning, measuring, and reporting their ESG impact, aiming to enhance their positive contribution to society.
Since 2024, over 6,000 large companies in the EU must report the environmental, social, and governance (ESG) risks under the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD). This extends to all large companies across the EU. By 2026, it will apply to companies with more than 250 employees or €40 million in turnover, impacting nearly 80,000 SMEs. Simultaneously, the Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation (SFDR) also requires investors to disclose ESG impacts of their investments, promoting transparency and accountability in financial markets.
Implementing these regulations creates a significant burden for business leaders, necessitating robust sustainability management systems and precise ESG metrics. Proactively managingESG factors can reduce risks and enhance market positioning. Firms that demonstrate genuine sustainability commitment are more likely to attract impact-oriented investors, environmentally and socially conscious consumers, and individuals prioritizing ethical workplaces. Effective ESG management can thus become a pivotal strategic advantage, potentially shaping a successful future business model.
