Empowering Change: Driving ESG Excellence Across Industries – A Two-Day Transformational Journey

This week I facilitated the Australian Institute of Management two-day ESG course which was a resounding success, filled with learning, collaboration, and actionable insights, leaving participants feeling inspired and energised to implement ESG principles in their organisations.

Drawing professionals from a diverse range of industries—including construction, airports, local government, chemicals, energy, consulting, and social housing—the group engaged in thought-provoking discussions and gained a comprehensive understanding of ESG's transformative potential.

Day One

Day 1 was all about building a solid foundation, exploring key ESG concepts, and understanding their relevance in various business contexts. From the outset, the participants were eager to dive deeper into areas such as climate change, sustainable supply chains, and stakeholder engagement. Many participants shared that they had been aware of the SDGs but hadn’t fully explored how to align their business objectives with these goals, which was a major breakthrough for many. The enthusiasm for the case studies was clear, as they provided real-world examples of ESG in action, allowing participants to see how theory translates into impactful business strategies.

The diverse group found immense value in networking and learning from different sectors. One participant from the sports industry, for instance, noted the focus on social and governance issues but recognised the opportunity to do more on the environmental front. Similarly, the importance of empowering franchisees in ESG, the role of ESG technology in streamlining management, and the power of stakeholder engagement were some key realisations that resonated with the group.

By the end of Day 1, participants were buzzing with ideas, many highlighting how ESG could directly improve business performance and enhance stakeholder relations. The discussions on governance frameworks and the potential for forming ESG committees or working groups were particularly eye-opening, with attendees from various sectors sharing ideas on how to take these first steps.

Day Two

Day 2 focused on action. It was a hands-on day where participants worked on applying the concepts from Day 1 into strategies and plans that they could take back to their organisations. Topics such as modern slavery, carbon accounting, and DEIB were explored in depth, with participants recognising the need for stronger alignment of their ESG strategies with organisational goals.

There was a palpable shift from theoretical discussions to practical implementation. Participants reflected on the need to set ambitious yet achievable NetZero goals, review policies and action plans regularly, and consolidate existing initiatives under a unified ESG strategy. Many appreciated the focus on developing strategies and action plans that could be put into practice immediately. The importance of having ESG champions within their businesses was a key takeaway, as was the value of setting clear deadlines for actions.

By the close of the second day, there was a real sense of momentum in the room. The group recognised the importance of integrating ESG into the broader business strategy and aligning these efforts with the SDGs. There was widespread agreement on the need to elevate social and sustainable procurement practices and the benefits of making ESG statements visible to clients and stakeholders.

Feedback for the course and facilitation was overwhelmingly positive, with many participants praising the breadth and depth of the content, as well as the inclusive and engaging approach. The diverse range of topics covered ensured everyone left with relevant, practical insights, and the collaborative atmosphere fostered rich discussions and peer learning. The diversity of perspectives, from mid-level professionals to CEOs and board members, enriched the conversation and added real value.

Participants walked away not only with newfound knowledge but also with a renewed sense of purpose and concrete steps to embed ESG within their organisations. The course was a true catalyst for change, and the feedback reflects the participants’ excitement and readiness to take their ESG strategies to the next level.

To find out more about this course please visit: https://www.aim.com.au/leadership-strategy/courses/environmental-social-governance-esg

We can also provide this two-day course “in-house” specifically tailored for your organisation. ?

#ESG #education #learning #business

Appendix

The learning outcomes were;

? Understand ESG key concepts in relation to the professional context?

? List key aspects of environmental sustainability and apply strategies to mitigate environmental impact

? Identify elements that make up the social aspect of ESG such as diversity and inclusion, labour practices and human rights and community engagement, and the ways organisations can impact them?

? Assess an organisation against common Governance frameworks, standards and reporting structures?

? Identify common key stakeholders in corporate ESG and develop stakeholder engagement initiatives?

? Describe challenges in implementing ESG initiatives and apply strategic planning methodologies to develop an accountability action plan for ESG issues

The key topics covered included;?

Day 1

? Introduction and Learning Outcomes?

? ESG for Business Explained?

? Climate Change and NetZero?

? ESG and Sustainable Supply Chains?

? Shared Value Approach?

? Stakeholder & Community Engagement?

? ESG Reporting Frameworks?

? ESG and Business Performance?

? Leading ESG Change?

? ESG in Practice – Case Studies?

? Summary and Reflection?

Day 2?

? Introduction to Modern Slavery?

? Foundations of Carbon Accounting?

? Developing a NetZero Strategy?

? Sustainable Procurement Practices?

? Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB)?

? Develop Your ESG Strategy?

? Develop Your ESG Action Plan?

? Communication For Sustainability?

? Implement ESG Strategies and Plans?

? Learning Journal?