ESG – HR Perspective

At the AmCham HR Forum event, discussions revolved around ESG principles and their impact on human resources professionals, with a specific emphasis on the potential of diversity, equality, and inclusion policies in the business environment.

During an open conversation and panel discussion, company representatives shared examples of best practices. Andrijana Aleksić Jevtić, Executive Director for Human Resources and Organization Management at NLB Komercijalna Banka, served as the host. Mila Branković, People & Culture Manager from IKEA Serbia, recognized as AmCham’s ESG Champion for 2023, and Goran Živković, CEO of CBS International, were among the panelists. Ana Vidović, Vice Chair of AmCham HR Forum from PepsiCo, moderated the discussion.

The panel focused on the “S” (Social) component, with an emphasis on diversity and addressing inequality issues. Participants shared experiences and strategies aimed at creating a more inclusive work environment.

Reflecting on the discussion, it was highlighted that the social dimension of ESG is often neglected due to challenges in measuring activities in this domain. Companies agreed on the necessity of recognizing the importance of social responsibility in business, as well as the significance of developing innovative human resources practices supporting social sustainability. Strategies to enhance working conditions, diversity, and inclusivity were considered.

Petar Petrović, Director of the Sustainability Department at NLB Komercijalna Banka, emphasized that the company has reduced its CO2 footprint by over 60% compared to 2019. Through calculating the average carbon footprint of a Serbian citizen, Petrović urged attendees to reassess their lifestyles and contribute to environmental preservation. He particularly stressed that current results indicate a concerning need for change, as, based on current consumption, it would require 2.9 Earths to sustain our way of life.