Oxford University’s Saïd Business School and the accounting organisations AICPA & CIMA have announced the launch of the Sustainability Reporting and ESG Data Management Programme. This new executive management course focuses on strategies for sustainability reporting.
Amir Amel-Zadeh, Associate Professor of Accounting at Saïd Business School, stated that this initiative arises as companies encounter new compliance requirements for sustainability reporting, transitioning from a voluntary to a mandatory environment. He noted:
“Finance leaders sit at the intersection of strategy, compliance, and value creation. Fluency in sustainability reporting and ESG data management is therefore key. This programme equips finance professionals not only with the technical knowledge to meet evolving standards but also with the strategic insight to embed sustainability into the core of decision-making by translating ESG data into actionable insights.”
The eight-week programme is tailored for senior finance team members, consultants, auditors, and risk managers. Its aim is to help professionals develop, implement, and enhance sustainability reporting strategies within their organisations. Participants will master sustainability reporting frameworks and standards, including the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD), the International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB), and the European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS) underpinning the EU’s CSRD regulation. More information on these standards can be found on the FSB-TCFD and IFRS ISSB websites.
The course focuses on integrating ESG data into decision-making, using technology to create business value, fostering robust governance and control systems for sustainable growth, and identifying best practices in preparing for sustainability assurance.
The programme includes multimedia learning materials, webinars, and optional weekly group sessions led by course tutors. Participants will receive a certificate jointly signed by Saïd Business School and AICPA & CIMA upon completion.
Jeremy Osborn, Global Head of Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Matters for AICPA & CIMA, highlighted the programme’s impact:
“Accounting and finance professionals who complete this programme will have the necessary tools to lead their organisations in sustainability reporting, employ best practices in meeting compliance with evolving regulations, and will have a better ability to anticipate trends in this rapidly maturing area.”
