Environmental Social and Governance Analyst

Education

If you are considering a career as an environmental social and governance (ESG) analyst, you should have a keen interest in:

• Corporate social responsibility and sustainability.
• Environmental studies and conservation efforts.
• Social justice and ethical business practices.
• Data analysis and research methodologies.
• Global economic trends and their impacts on society and the environment.

If you are a post-secondary student considering a career as an ESG analyst, the following undergraduate programs are most applicable:

• Environmental studies.
• Sustainable business or business administration focusing on sustainability.
• Economics focusing on environmental and resource economics.
• Environmental policy and management.
• Corporate social responsibility or social enterprise.

An undergraduate degree is typically required for ESG analysts, who assess and guide businesses on environmental, social, and governance practices for ethical and sustainable operations. Obtaining advanced degrees, such as a master's or doctoral degree, can enhance your expertise, provide better career opportunities, and improve your ability to advise on sustainability and ethics in the business world. These programs provide specialized skills highly valued in the professional and academic fields. Relevant graduate programs include:

• Sustainability management.
• Environmental ethics and sustainability.
• Public policy with a specialization in environmental policy.
• Corporate social responsibility,
• Business administration with a concentration in sustainable or social impact.

In Canada, ESG analysts may enhance their credentials and expertise through the following professional certifications. These certifications formally recognize expertise in essential areas of ESG and offer ongoing professional development to stay current on emerging trends and best practices.

• Sustainability and Climate Risk Certificate: The Global Association of Risk Professionals offers certification in climate risk management and sustainability designed for those seeking expertise in sustainability risks, climate risk analysis, and their financial implications.
• Certified Sustainability Practitioner Program: Offered by the Centre for Sustainability and Excellence, this internationally recognized certification helps professionals gain advanced knowledge and skills in corporate social responsibility and best practices.
• Fundamentals of Sustainability Accounting Credential: This credential, offered by the International Financial Reporting Standards, demonstrates expertise in financial material sustainability information and how it impacts financial performance.

Our Environmental Professional (EP) designation can also help you progress in your chosen environmental career.

Skills

Technical Skills

• Environmental social and governance reporting and standards
• Sustainability assessment tools
• Environmental law and policy
• Data analysis software
• Financial analysis
• Risk management frameworks
• Corporate governance principles
• Stakeholder engagement strategies
• Sustainable supply chain management
• Climate change and environmental sciences

Personal and Professional Skills

• Analytical thinking
• Effective communication
• Problem-solving
• Attention to detail
• Ethical judgment
• Adaptability
• Collaboration
• Leadership
• Strategic thinking
• Emotional intelligence

Environmental employers look for professionals who can combine technical knowledge with soft skills. Watch our free webinar Essential Not Optional: Skills Needed to Succeed in Canada’s Environmental Industry or take our Essential Skills courses.