Empowering our workforce: Nordea launches bespoke ESG training curriculum

“There’s no question sustainability will continue to be one of the major trends reshaping our business,” says Anne Schult Ulriksen, Head of ESG in LC&I. “The aim of the sustainability training programme is to help ensure that we remain relevant, competent and compliant on sustainability topics, and that we continue to support our clients’ transition towards a more sustainable net-zero future.”

The trainings are categorised into 10 core modules, covering topics ranging from Nordea’s sustainability strategy and the current reporting and regulatory environment to sustainable products and services. Each training is assessed for its relevance to specific employee roles and assigned different competency levels.

Addressing different competency needs

Peder Bach, Head of LC&I Denmark and a participant in the training programme, says the modular structure makes it easy to access the most relevant parts of the course, based on one’s specific role.

“In this relatively new field, we all have different touchpoints with ESG and sustainability. Having training modules makes it possible to combine the right trainings and bridge any knowledge gaps in a tailored and efficient way,” he says.

The approach also makes it easy to structure learning plans for new employees, and the curriculum is included in employees’ development plans, he adds.

Angelica Lundman, head of a corporate client executive team in LC&I Sweden, underscores the need for the training.

“We all need to boost our knowledge in this area so we can engage with our clients on ESG issues and not just rely on access to our sustainability specialists. Sustainability has become an integral part of our dialogue with clients, which means that everyone needs a basic understanding of the key principles,” she says.

As a participant in the course herself, she also appreciates its structure: “It’s easy to track and follow in 30-minute bite-size chunks of training. You don’t need to put everything else on hold and set aside a full week at a time.”