"Understand Your Company's 'G' (Governance!) to Get Your Sustainability Project Implemented". Dr Mimi Ajibadé, Ex-Chatham House Lead. SUSXL TALK

Davis Mukasa, SUSXL founder, challenged a panel of sustainability leaders to discuss this topic: “COP28. So What. What Next?”, asking for the panel’s personal and professional insights and thoughts. In this seminar, the speakers, Mimi Ajibadé of Cogent Governance, Sandy Jarayaj of The Sustainable Investor, Magali Anderson, ex-CSO of Holcim and Bernard Lebelle, CEO of The Green Link and EDHEC professor, discussed various aspects related to sustainability, corporate governance, and the outcomes of COP28. 

Mimi focused on the importance of corporate governance within the context of COP28, emphasizing the need for empowerment to address global climate issues. She highlighted the role of governance, politics, and shareholder delegation in promoting sustainability within organizations. 

About Mimi Ajibadé:

Mimi is a corporate governance expert and sinologist specializing in UK corporate law and Chinese corporate law. Formerly a Trustee of the Royal Institute of International Affairs (Chatham House), Mimi chaired the Next Generation Committee.

Mimi, a seasoned sustainability/ESG and strategic governance expert with over two decades of experience, founded Cogent Governance to address the knowledge gap in the governance dimensions of ESG and sustainability. Her extensive career includes holding senior roles as a corporate and subsidiary governance expert in various entities, ranging from FTSE 50 listed companies to SMEs and not-for-profits. She served as the Director of Corporate Affairs in Beijing at a prominent Chinese carbon trading company, Arreon Carbon. As a Fellow of the Chartered Governance Institute with a Ph.D. in corporate law and governance, Mimi has authored feature and technical articles on corporate governance.

Mimi Ajibadé Talk Summary:

Mimi begins by acknowledging the perceived dullness of corporate governance but asserts its importance, especially in the context of COP 28 and global climate governance. Her discussion revolves around the empowerment of organizations and individuals, with a focus on sustainability culture. The speaker highlights the significance of understanding governance structures, the delegation of authority from shareholders to sustainability professionals, and the need for embedding sustainability into everyday work life. Practical steps, such as upskilling in corporate governance, engaging with company secretaries, and identifying non-executive champions, are suggested for individuals to become actively involved in the governance process. The ultimate goal is to foster a sustainable culture within organizations. The speaker encourages self-reflection on personal empowerment and offers to clarify concepts for those seeking further understanding.

Key Takeaways:

>Corporate governance, often perceived as boring, becomes interesting when linked to global governance, such as COP 28 focusing on climate issues.

>COP 28 is seen as a global attempt at governance, raising questions about its empowerment and effectiveness in addressing climate issues.

>The speaker emphasizes the importance of empowerment in achieving sustainability goals, both at the global and corporate levels.

>Short-term approaches like political maneuvering are acknowledged but considered insufficient for long-term sustainability.

>Corporate governance and delegation of authority from shareholders to sustainability professionals are crucial for embedding sustainability culture in organizations.

>The speaker urges reflection on personal empowerment within corporate governance and advocates for sustainability experts to actively participate in the governance process.

>Upskilling in corporate governance is recommended for understanding reporting lines, powers, and being accountable to shareholders.

>Practical steps include engaging with company secretaries, identifying non-executive champions, and networking with governance professionals.

>The ultimate goal is to integrate sustainability into everyday work life, fostering a culture that aligns with long-term sustainability objectives.

Find out more about Cogent Governance and Mimi Ajibadé at Cogent Governance.