Talking ESG: Taking reporting from theory to action

In our Talking ESG podcast series, we will give an end-to-end look at what it takes to build effective ESG reporting in today’s environment. From investor expectations, to global frameworks, to data, process, and controls—there’s something in it for everyone.

In this week’s episode, Heather Horn sat down with Casey Herman, PwC’s US ESG leader, to talk through the current landscape of ESG reporting and how an in-depth understanding of your business’s purpose, strategy, and stakeholders can empower your messaging.

Topics include:

• 3:51 - What is the current state of ESG? Companies will likely have to make changes to their businesses to meet their ESG-related commitments. Casey lays out what stakeholders are looking for and how you can tie these expectations into your strategy.
• 7:45 - Complexities of ESG reporting. Stakeholders are beginning to put pressure on companies to report more on ESG. Casey walks us through the challenges that companies are facing and some potential solutions.
• 22:36 - How is finance getting involved? As companies begin migrating their ESG reporting into the finance function, Casey explains some of the core competencies they should be looking to develop.
• 29:38 - How to get up to speed. Heather and Casey discuss some of the ways the finance teams can move from theory to action on ESG reporting, and close with advice on how companies can stay ahead of the curve in the face of rapid developments.

Want to learn more?

Check out our ESG: What finance teams need to know webcast, and hear more from Casey in his earlier podcast Forecast 2021: The “E” in ESG, spotlight on achieving net zero.

Casey Herman is PwC’s US ESG Leader. Casey has over 35 years of experience leading and working on the audits of many significant, complex clients and is a member of the Edison Electric Institute's Wall Street Advisory Group, the Electric Power Research Institutes Advisory Council, and the NYU Stern Business School Center for Sustainable Business Advisory Council.

Heather Horn is a Deputy Chief Accountant in PwC’s National Office and leader of the thought leadership group, responsible for developing our communications strategy and conveying firm positions on accounting and financial reporting matters. She is the engaging host of PwC’s accounting and reporting weekly podcast and quarterly webcast series, as well as periodic webcasts for the power and utilities industry. With over 30 years of experience, Heather’s accounting and auditing expertise includes financial instruments and rate-regulated accounting.

Transcripts available upon request for individuals who may need a disability-related accommodation. Please send requests to us_podcast@pwc.com.