Transitioning from a background in finance to one focused on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) can be an enriching career move, especially given the growing importance of sustainability and responsible investing. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to upskill from finance to ESG.
Online Courses and Certifications
- Coursera: Offers various courses on sustainable finance, ESG investing, and corporate sustainability.
- edX: Provides courses on sustainable business practices, climate change, and ESG investing.
- University of Cambridge: Offers an online course in “Circular Economy and Sustainability Strategies.”
- CFA Institute Certificate in ESG Investing: Focuses on the integration of ESG factors into investment analysis.
- Sustainable Accounting Standards Board (SASB): Provides training courses and resources on ESG reporting and disclosure.
- Swinburne University of Technology: Offers a short course in “Business Sustainability and Social Impact.”
Books and Publications
- “The SRI Advantage: Why Socially Responsible Investing Has Outperformed Financially” by Peter Camejo.
- “ESG Essentials: A Primer for Asset Managers, Owners, and Consultants” by William Burckart, Jessica Ziegler, and Steve Lydenberg.
- “The ESG Handbook” by Wiley Finance.
- Various reports and publications from organisations like the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI), Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI), and the Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB).
Industry Associations and Networks:
- Joining organisations such as the PRI, United Nations Global Compact, or the Global Reporting Initiative can provide access to resources, events, and networking opportunities in the ESG space.
- Participate in local sustainability-focused groups or networks to engage with professionals in the field and learn about best practices.
Blogs and Websites:
- Stay updated on ESG trends, news, and insights by following blogs like GreenBiz, Responsible Investor, and ESG Today.
- Websites of ESG research firms like MSCI ESG Research, Sustainalytics, and Bloomberg ESG.
Webinars and Conferences
- Attend webinars and conferences on ESG topics to gain knowledge and network with professionals in the field.
- Events hosted by organisations like PRI, SASB, and Ceres often feature discussions on ESG investing, sustainable finance, and corporate sustainability.
Networking and Mentorship:
- Connect with professionals already working in ESG roles for insights, advice, and potential mentorship opportunities.
- Utilise LinkedIn to expand your professional network and join relevant groups or communities.
- Explore ESG career advice and support from our team at Troy Recruitment.
Practical Experience:
- Seek out opportunities for hands-on experience with ESG analysis, such as internships, volunteer work, or projects within your current organisation.
- Consider applying for roles that involve ESG integration, sustainability reporting, or responsible investing to gain practical experience in the field. You can find curated ESG job opportunities on our site.
By leveraging these resources and actively engaging with the ESG community, individuals can effectively upskill from finance to ESG and transition into roles focused on sustainability and responsible investing.
If you’d like to discuss career opportunities or hiring in Finance and ESG, get in contact with our team.
