Experts from academia and industry provided an engaging insight into the world of Environmental, Social and Corporate Governance in the Financial Sector at a special Lancaster University Management School event.

Alumni from across LUMS’ five decades, along with new students about to start out on their journey with the School and members of staff, were among more than 80 participants in the online presentations and discussions.

The event, hosted by Professor Steven Young and Dr Sandra Nolte of LUMS’ Accounting and Finance Department, featured Jessica Cassey, Senior Investment Manager at RPMI Railpen, along with LUMS Professors Jeffrey Unerman and Mark Shackleton.

Jessica set the scene with an informative industry overview, followed by analysis from Professor Unerman on the drawbacks of focusing on quantification in finance sector ESG evaluations, and an interactive presentation from Professor Shackleton on risk and returns within ESG in comparison with more traditional investments.

The presentations were followed by discussions based around thought-provoking questions from participants and smaller group sessions allowing attendees to talk with each of the speakers.