Leading Sustainability

Jessica Robinson is a sustainable finance leader from the strategy consulting sector with a global career and particular focus on emerging markets. Jessica was previously a Partner and leader for MENA Sustainable Finance at EY-Parthenon and Head of Asia for the PRI. 

Timestamps:

(00:28) Navigating a non-linear career path

(02:19) Taking sustainability careers around the globe

(03:24) Regional differences in ESG adoption and greenwashing

(07:06) Authentic leadership in driving sustainability

(10:38) How leadership roles have changed within sustainability

(13:32) Impact strategies and defining sustainability 

(17:02) Female leadership nuances and collaboration

(19:48) Embracing generational diversity and future leaders

(21:17) The role of mentorship in career development

(25:01) Identifying talent from diverse backgrounds

(27:31) Reflecting on pivotal career lessons learned 

(30:12) Balancing a successful career with parenthood

(33:54) Managing burnout and discussing it openly

(36:42) Explaining a career in sustainability to friends

(39:09) Embracing opposing views and healthy debate

(41:59) Handing conflict when discussing sustainability

(43:55) A career in politics and a passion for vinyl

(45:35) Finding fulfilment through extracurricular hobbies

Claudia Wearmouth is the Global Head of Responsible Investment at Columbia Threadneedle Investments, a global asset management business with $650 billion AUM. 

Timestamps:

(00:20) Getting into the industry

(04:17) How the ESG role has evolved

(08:05) ESG specialists vs. generalists

(12:21) Challenges of growing a global team

(16:56) Retaining talent in an active market

(21:49) Managing ambitious employees

(27:12) Juggling personal and professional life

(30:31) Switching off from work and stress

(34:16) Misconceptions and ESG politicization 

(35:45) Skills evolution in the next five years

(38:04) How the political landscape impacts the sector

(41:44) Managing the noise and short termism

(42:50) Another career in another life

A trailer for the upcoming podcast, Leading Sustainability, which launched in July 2024, hosted by Tom Strelczak at TWS Search Partners.

Listen to this short clip to learn more about the podcast focused on interviewing luminaries within the field of sustainable and impact investing.