Recognizing Visionaries Driving Positive Change In ESG
BCG’s Retail Influencer Network, The Z Suite, and WWD Honor Most Influential ESG Leaders
THEY ARE BOLD VISIONARIES who walk the talk when it comes to developing, implementing and setting ESG goals. And when it comes to putting into practice ESG policies (either for their own companies or helping others), they are steadfast, pragmatic and committed to making the world a better place.
Meet the honorees of this create ‘shared value’ — meaning year’s Most Influential ESG they maximize the value of their Leaders. business by addressing the
The list includes leaders from most important needs of their American Eagle Outfitters, e.l.f. stakeholders in innovative and Beauty, Gap Inc., Macy’s, and effective ways.”
Tapestry, among many others. “When it comes to ESG,
This year’s honors are presented companies can: prioritize the by Berns Communications issues at the intersection of Group (BCG)’s Retail Influencer stakeholder needs and business Network and The Z Suite, in relevance; collaborate with collaboration with Women’s others across sectors to rewire Wear Daily (WWD). This operations and supply chains to prestigious accolade honors address issues in value-creating senior-level executives and Gen ways; and manage key initiatives Z leaders who have exhibited as they would any other part exceptional commitment to of their business — setting advancing environmental, social, ambitious goals, innovating to and governance (ESG) practices overcome challenges, holding within the retail, technology, people accountable for results, and consumer industries. and disclosing progress as well
When asked what it takes as challenges,” McLaughlin said. to create real change in the For e.l.f. Beauty, actionable industry on the ESG front, steps to reach ESG goals Kathleen McLaughlin, Executive require a certain type of
Vice President and Chief leadership approach. Tarang Sustainability Officer at Walmart Amin, Chairman and Chief
Inc. and President of the Executive Officer of e.l.f. Beauty, Walmart Foundation, began by said, “Leading with positivity, explaining that in the long term, inclusivity and accessibility “successful companies take an achieves impactful ESG expansive view of what it means outcomes.” to run a great business. They “It starts with being purposeled and representing the diverse community that we serve,” Amin explained. “We are one of only four publicly traded companies (out of 4,200) in the U.S. with a Board of Directors that is twothirds women and one-third diverse. We strive to do the right thing for people, the planet, and our furry and finned friends. We lean into our superpowers of bringing premium quality products at accessible prices that are clean, vegan, cruelty free and Fair Trade-certified.”
Lauren Guthrie, Vice President of Global Talent and Inclusion, Diversity, Equity & Action (IDEA) at the VF Corp., also noted that consumers are key, and that ESG, “is a powerful tool to drive corporate mobilization in support of the greatest challenges facing our planet and global societies. However, for us to drive towards real and sustained solutions, consumers need to continue to vote with their dollars and support companies who are not only talking about the work, but consistently demonstrating their commitment through action.”
The honorees of the Most Influential ESG Leaders list will be honored at the second annual Retail Influencer CEO Forum Featuring The Z Suite on September 12. The full-day, invitation-only summit at New York’s Crosby Street Hotel will unite Gen Z leaders and influencers with retail and brand executives to help the industry unlock the Gen Z consumer mindset.
This year, the forum’s programming will center on the theme of “Courageous Leadership Paving the Way for Real Change” and featured speakers will include CEOs, ZEOs and senior executives who are leading with conviction and connecting deeply with Gen
Zers along the way.
“This forum is a unique opportunity to uncover what Gen Z truly values and how brand leaders are building strategies to meet them where they are,” said Stacy Berns, President and Founder of
Berns Communications Group. “We believe that by bringing together these influential voices, we can drive positive change, foster innovation, and shape more sustainable, inclusive, and responsible business practices.”
The selected individuals have demonstrated exceptional leadership and dedication to driving positive change across environmental, social, and governance practices. Their innovative strategies and commitment to ESG principles have set new benchmarks for corporate responsibility within their respective sectors.
These leaders have been selected by a distinguished panel of experts from WWD, the Retail Influencer Network, The Z Suite, and The DealmakeHers for their outstanding contributions to fostering sustainable practices and making a significant impact on the ESG landscape.
ESG practices have gained paramount importance in the business world today. Organizations that prioritize environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and ethical governance are not only contributing positively to society but are also demonstrating resilience and a forward-looking approach. As consumers, investors, and stakeholders increasingly demand transparency and accountability, businesses that integrate ESG principles into their operations stand to build lasting trust and create a more sustainable future.