More and more companies are leveraging CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) reports to demonstrate to their shareholders that they are considering the impacts of their business operations on sustainability issues.  It forces a level of accountability and transparency, which is increasingly important in today’s climate.

However, while it is critical for companies to report on sustainability, it is even more important for companies to embed sustainability efforts throughout their organizations. Leading companies are looking at these efforts as a means to make a material difference within the communities they serve, to drive engagement with a new generation of employees, and connect with consumers around issues that are truly important to them.

This week, I welcome back Sam Ruiz to Taking Stock. Sam, which will be quickly evident through our discussion, is incredibly passionate about sustainability and has driven strategy for both Clarkston and our clients. In this discussion, Sam talks about why now is the right time for companies to update their CSR reports due to the fact that consumers’ purchasing decisions are being driven towards brands that they find to be environmentally and socially responsible. Sam shares her perspective on how companies should communicate their CSR efforts to consumers, and how doing so will drive competitive advantage in today’s market. Finally, Sam touches upon what I would consider a broader definition of sustainability, with companies now considering issues around diversity, inclusion, and equity as foundational to their social and environmental impact.

You can download and listen to the Corporate Social Responsibility: Taking Stock with Sam Ruiz podcast episode here.

Taking Stock

In this podcast series, Clarkston Consulting Partner Steve Rosenstock sits down with experts and thought leaders from both within Clarkston and throughout its consumer products and life sciences client-base, covering a range of topics from industry trends and consumer dynamics, to organizational governance and business strategy. Steve provides you access into the passions of its guests and allows you to benefit from their stories, knowledge, and deep expertise.

Podcast production by Zach McClughen.