Our article in the econic magazine - the increasing importance of the Chief Sustainability Officer

In today's business world, sustainability management is becoming increasingly important and an integral part of corporate governance. The role of the Chief Sustainability Officer (CSO) has changed significantly in this process, and it plays a crucial role in shaping a sustainable future for companies of all sizes.

For a long time, sustainability management in companies, especially small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), was considered a "feel-good factor". But the increasing complexity of rules and regulations has led to sustainability becoming an important part of corporate management, or governance.

In 2021, more sustainability officers were hired globally than in the previous five years, and from 2024 onwards, the importance of sustainability in companies in Germany will continue to grow.

In the past, the role of the CSO varied considerably from company to company. Depending on the focus of the role, be it investor relations or operational efficiency, the CSO reported to different members of the executive board. This diversity in role descriptions often led to conflicts and inefficiencies.

In our article in the recently published “econic” magazine, we explore how Chief Sustainability Officers (CSOs) are shaping the future of companies. We discuss why CSOs should enjoy the same status as other members of senior management and how they build strong relationships with customers and investors to successfully lead the sustainability transformation. The role of the CSO is thus evolving from a "feel-good factor" to a strategically relevant aspect that positively influences the future of companies.

Read more in the full-length article in the “econic” magazine 05/23 from page 10 and following.

*Please note that the article is only available in German.