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

---