In this episode we speak to Beth Sasfai, Partner at the renowned law firm Cooley.
We talk about the challenge of sustainability reporting requirements and how most companies have lost the idea of big ambitious goals.
We also discuss the difference in sustainability governance and ESG strategy between public and private businesses, and common blind spots in start-ups that create risk.
Beth talks about her personal experiences counselling for clients on ESG; which stakeholders she considers to be the most influential right now; and she shares her recommendations for sustainability oversight on board level.
Listen to the podcast here:
About Beth Sasfai
Beth’s practice focuses on advising public and private companies, investment funds and their boards in a broad range of corporate matters, with an emphasis on their ESG matters, including sustainability reporting, board oversight and disclosure controls, and shareholder and stakeholder engagement. She has extensive experience developing robust environmental, social and governance (ESG) strategies and driving forward a wide range of ESG initiatives, from corporate governance and board affairs to ESG reporting and shareholder engagement issues – and more.
Before joining Cooley, Beth served as Verizon’s senior vice president, governance and chief ESG officer. While at Verizon, she was responsible for the company’s ESG strategy, disclosure and related stakeholder advocacy while leading a cross-functional team of lawyers and sustainability professionals responsible for corporate governance policy and board affairs; ESG commitments, reporting and engagement; business and human rights; digital trust and safety; compliance with corporate and securities laws; legal support to investor relations and external reporting; and advising on other general corporate matters. She also served as a management liaison to the Corporate Governance and Policy Committee of the Verizon board of directors, the committee charged with overseeing sustainability, governance, public policy and reputational risk.
Previously, Beth was vice president and associate general counsel, litigation for Verizon corporate. In that role, she was responsible for litigation and dispute resolution nationally for Verizon’s corporate, wireline, wireless, and enterprise and government businesses.
Beth has more than 20 years of experience, including a strong background in regulatory, governance, public policy and corporate litigation. Before joining Verizon, Beth also practiced in the corporate and litigation groups of prominent New York City law firms.
About 'Leadership Conversations by TSB'
The Sustainability Board is an independent non-profit organisation, supporting sustainable leadership and governance through research, thought leadership, and intelligence services.
We believe that poor leadership is a systemic risk, and that business is a powerful vehicle for positive change. Our reports, intelligence, dialogues, and community aim to drive accountability for a sustainable future.
Leadership Conversations is the podcast of TSB. In this interview series we interview global leaders who advocate for more positive societal impact and responsible business. Leadership Conversations is hosted by Frederik Otto.