ESG Centered Podcast Notes

Jun 28, 2024

ESG Centered Podcast with Independent Verification Analysts (IVA)

Introduction

  • Host: Red, Independent Verification Analyst
  • Guest: June, Pioneering Member of IVA team
  • Topic: B Lab, B Corps, and the audit and verification process

Background of the Guest

  • June joined IVA: 2021, post-COVID-19
  • Training: Structured, engaging, fostered reconnection
  • Personal Interests: Gardening (June), Guitar and Gaming (Red)

B Lab & B Corps

  • B Lab: Accreditation body for businesses for good
  • B Corps: For-profit companies with high standards in:
    • Governance
    • Workers
    • Environment
    • Community
    • Customers
  • B Lab Directory: BCorporation.net for finding B Corps
  • B Impact App: Platform for companies to measure and quiz their impact

Partnership with B Lab

  • Started: 2021
  • Goal: Address the growth of B Corps, reduce certification wait time
  • IVA Role:
    • Scale B Lab certification process
    • Act as third-party to maintain certification integrity

Management and Operations

  • Early Management: Scheduling, managing leaves & timekeeping
  • Additional Roles: June took senior operations role
  • Tools Provided by B Lab: Enhanced familiarity with the process
  • Onboarding Training: Managed by the team, new members like Sarah Baras and Eric Sanchez joined

IVA Responsibilities

  • Role: Assist companies in providing accurate ESG impact information
  • Tasks:
    • Review and verify information
    • Ensure accurate capture of ESG impact in BIA
  • Challenges: Learning about diverse business models and industries
  • Flexibility: Time management, dealing with different time zones
  • Research: Essential for understanding assigned industries
  • Team Diversity: Inclusive workforce with members from diverse backgrounds, many languages spoken

Transition to TUER

  • New Company Formation: TUER now houses all IVAs
  • Purpose: Design more audit-centric processes
  • Goals:
    • Meet/exceed international certification requirements (e.g., ISO)
    • Increase credibility in ESG space

Impact Assessment and Certification

  • B Impact Assessment App: Free tool to measure impact, set goals, and submit for certification
  • Point System: Score above 80 points to submit for certification

Recruitment and Career Opportunities

  • Joining IVAs: Training provided, impactful work in the ESG space
  • Recruitment: Advertisements on job portals and company websites

Conclusion

  • Gratitude: Thanks to June and listeners
  • Anticipation: Continued success of B Lab certification efforts
  • Call to Action: Tune in for more episodes