In the modern business world, Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria have become critical drivers of corporate strategy, investor confidence, and brand reputation. The HR function is uniquely positioned to lead the "Social" and "Governance" aspects of this transformation, moving beyond traditional compliance to become a strategic partner in building a sustainable and ethical organization. This training course is meticulously designed to equip HR professionals and leaders with the strategic skills and practical frameworks needed to integrate ESG principles into every aspect of the employee lifecycle, from talent acquisition and development to reporting and culture. This program provides the essential blueprint for a new generation of HR leaders prepared to champion sustainability and drive long-term value.

This comprehensive curriculum offers a practical deep dive into the entire ESG landscape from an HR perspective, from designing a compelling ESG strategy to reporting on key metrics and engaging stakeholders. You will learn how to use data to measure the social impact of your organization, develop policies that promote ethical labor practices, and align your talent strategy with your sustainability goals. The course focuses on real-world case studies and hands-on exercises, helping you to build the skills necessary to influence leadership decisions and prove the ROI of your ESG initiatives. By the end of this program, you will not only be proficient in ESG reporting but also be prepared to champion a purpose-driven culture and architect a future-ready, sustainable organization.

Duration

10 days

Target Audience

• HR directors and managers
• ESG and sustainability specialists
• People analytics specialists
• HR business partners
• Chief human resources officers (CHROs)
• Senior executives and operations managers
• Legal and compliance professionals
• Talent management and development leaders
• Corporate social responsibility (CSR) specialists
• Anyone responsible for ESG reporting and strategy

Objectives

• Understand the strategic link between HR, ESG, and business success.
• Master a comprehensive framework for designing and implementing an ESG strategy.
• Navigate global reporting standards for sustainability (e.g., GRI, SASB).
• Develop a strategic plan for integrating ESG principles into the employee lifecycle.
• Build a compelling business case for investing in ESG and sustainability initiatives.
• Communicate ESG goals and progress to internal and external stakeholders.
• Address ethical dilemmas related to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).
• Use data and analytics to measure the social impact of your organization.
• Create a roadmap for a successful ESG and sustainability reporting process.

Course Modules

Module 1: The Foundations of ESG and HR's Role

• Defining Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria.
• The link between ESG, business value, and financial performance.
• The strategic role of HR in driving the Social and Governance pillars.
• The evolution of corporate responsibility and sustainability.
• Case studies of organizations with successful ESG strategies.

Module 2: ESG Strategy and Goal Setting

• A step-by-step framework for designing a comprehensive ESG strategy.
• Identifying material topics and key stakeholders.
• Setting clear, measurable, and time-bound ESG goals.
• The importance of aligning your ESG strategy with your business strategy.
• Best practices for a proactive vs. a reactive ESG approach.

Module 3: ESG Reporting and Metrics

• An overview of global reporting standards (e.g., GRI, SASB, TCFD).
• The difference between mandatory and voluntary ESG disclosures.
• Key HR metrics for ESG reporting (e.g., diversity data, turnover, engagement).
• The importance of data accuracy, consistency, and transparency.
• Strategies for communicating your ESG report to stakeholders.

Module 4: The Social Pillar (S): Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)

• The link between DEI and social equity in ESG.
• Using data to measure DEI metrics and identify gaps.
• Developing a strategic plan for building a more diverse workforce.
• Best practices for inclusive hiring, promotion, and development.
• The role of HR in fostering a culture of belonging.

Module 5: The Social Pillar (S): Employee Well-being and Safety

• The link between well-being, mental health, and employee performance.
• Designing programs that support physical, emotional, and financial well-being.
• The importance of a safe and healthy work environment.
• The role of HR in managing workplace stress and burnout.
• Best practices for a comprehensive well-being and safety strategy.

Module 6: The Social Pillar (S): Labor Practices and Human Rights

• The importance of fair labor practices and ethical supply chains.
• Navigating global labor laws and regulations.
• The role of HR in ensuring fair wages and working conditions.
• Addressing human rights issues in your organization and supply chain.
• Best practices for a transparent and ethical labor policy.

Module 7: The Environmental Pillar (E): Green HR

• The link between employee engagement and environmental sustainability.
• Developing a framework for green HR initiatives.
• The role of HR in promoting a culture of environmental responsibility.
• Best practices for reducing your organization's environmental footprint.
• The importance of communicating environmental goals to employees.

Module 8: The Governance Pillar (G): Ethics and Compliance

• The link between corporate governance and ethical behavior.
• The role of HR in managing codes of conduct and ethics policies.
• Best practices for anti-corruption and anti-bribery policies.
• The importance of a robust and confidential whistleblower program.
• The role of HR in building a culture of trust and integrity.

Module 9: ESG Data Management and Technology

• The importance of a single source of truth for ESG data.
• An overview of software and technology for ESG reporting.
• Best practices for data collection, storage, and security.
• The role of people analytics in informing ESG strategy.
• Developing a data governance framework for ESG metrics.

Module 10: Stakeholder Engagement and Communication

• Identifying and prioritizing key internal and external stakeholders.
• The importance of a clear and consistent communication strategy.
• Best practices for engaging employees, investors, and communities.
• The role of HR in building a compelling ESG brand narrative.
• Strategies for addressing negative feedback and misinformation.

Module 11: ESG in the Employee Lifecycle

• Integrating ESG principles into talent acquisition and employer branding.
• The role of ESG in employee onboarding and development.
• Aligning performance management and rewards with ESG goals.
• The importance of ESG in employee retention and engagement.
• Best practices for a purpose-driven employee experience.

Module 12: Leadership and Culture

• The role of leadership in championing ESG initiatives.
• The link between ESG and a strong, purpose-driven organizational culture.
• Best practices for training leaders on ESG and sustainability.
• The importance of top-down and bottom-up engagement.
• Strategies for fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

Module 13: ESG and Executive Compensation

• The link between ESG performance and executive pay.
• Best practices for incorporating ESG metrics into compensation plans.
• The importance of transparency in executive compensation.
• The role of HR in designing a fair and equitable system.
• Case studies of organizations linking pay to ESG outcomes.

Module 14: ESG and Change Management

• The importance of a clear communication plan for ESG initiatives.
• Strategies for addressing employee uncertainty and managing resistance.
• The role of HR in managing change and building buy-in.
• Best practices for a smooth transition to a new ESG framework.
• The importance of celebrating small wins and building momentum.

Module 15: The Future of ESG in HR

• Emerging trends in AI, climate reporting, and new regulations.
• The skills needed to be a successful ESG leader.
• The role of HR in shaping future ESG legislation.
• Building a sustainable and scalable ESG function.
• A personal action plan for championing ESG in your role.

Training Approach

This course will be delivered by our skilled trainers who have vast knowledge and experience as expert professionals in the fields. The course is taught in English and through a mix of theory, practical activities, group discussion and case studies. Course manuals and additional training materials will be provided to the participants upon completion of the training.

Tailor-Made Course

This course can also be tailor-made to meet organization requirement. For further inquiries, please contact us on: Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org Tel: +254 702 249 449

Training Venue

The training will be held at our Skills for Africa Training Institute Training Centre. We also offer training for a group at requested location all over the world. The course fee covers the course tuition, training materials, two break refreshments, and buffet lunch.

Visa application, travel expenses, airport transfers, dinners, accommodation, insurance, and other personal expenses are catered by the participant

Certification

Participants will be issued with Skills for Africa Training Institute certificate upon completion of this course.

Airport Pickup and Accommodation

Airport pickup and accommodation is arranged upon request. For booking contact our Training Coordinator through Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org Tel: +254 702 249 449

Terms of Payment: Unless otherwise agreed between the two parties’ payment of the course fee should be done 7 working days before commencement of the training.