Andrew Henderson | Common Pitfalls in ESG Assurance

Описание: In this video, Andrew Henderson, Senior Advisor at Speeki, discusses the most common pitfalls organisations face in the assurance of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) reports. He emphasises the growing importance of reliable ESG reporting in light of global regulatory shifts, including the CSRD in Europe, and highlights lessons from Speeki’s work with clients navigating these changes.

Henderson explains how assurance is often treated as an afterthought, rather than an integrated part of the ESG reporting process. He emphasises the importance of early planning, establishing an annual assurance calendar, and implementing management systems to minimise inefficiencies and costs. Another key challenge he highlights is the lack of internal consistency and training across ESG teams, which complicates assurance efforts and impacts data quality.

The discussion also covers the misconception that a single assurance provider must cover all ESG components. Henderson outlines how multiple providers, if appropriately accredited and aligned in scope, can be used effectively. He also points to the essential role audit committees should play in ESG assurance, calling for better training and engagement, and concludes with a strong case for seeing assurance not as a compliance burden, but as a continuous value-adding process that strengthens governance and long-term ESG strategy.