Green Finance & Accountability: An Interdisciplinary Seminar for All EMLV MSc Students

The first session of the Interdisciplinary Business & Management Seminars brought together MSc students, faculty members and partners for a discussion on sustainable finance and organisational accountability. Contributions came from Prof. Nazim Hussain (EMLV, France), and Prof. Auke Plantinga (University of Groningen, Netherlands). Their combined expertise provided a rigorous foundation for discussing Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) regulation, transparency requirements, and the strategic implications for organisations.

This kick-off session introduces a series of interdisciplinary events designed to address major cross-cutting topics within the EMLV master’s curriculum.

A seminar aligned with the evolution of sustainable finance

The 90-minute online seminar explored the growing relevance of green finance, ESG accountability and corporate transparency.

Presentations  from Prof. Nazim Hussain (EMLV, France), whose research focuses on corporate governance, sustainable finance and disclosure practices, and Prof. Auke Plantinga (University of Groningen, Netherlands), recognised for his work on investment management, pension fund governance and long-term financial decision-making, addressed the development of reporting standards, the role of ESG ratings, climate-related risks and the influence of regulatory expectations on governance.

Participants examined how financial and non-financial disclosures increasingly guide risk management, corporate strategy and the adaptation of business models in international environments.

A transversal theme relevant to all MSc specialisations

Although anchored in sustainable finance, the topic engages all areas of management education. Understanding ESG mechanisms now forms a shared foundation for addressing transformations across industries.

MSc Supply Chain Management: transparency and responsible sourcing

ESG accountability supports supplier evaluation, traceability of flows and the management of operational and climate-related risks.

MSc Luxury & Innovation Management: governance and market expectations

Luxury brands encounter increased pressure on sustainability claims, ethical governance and traceability. ESG criteria inform product development, innovation strategies and stakeholder trust.

MSc Digital Business Analytics: data governance and digital accountability

The seminar highlighted the role of data analytics in ESG reporting, digital traceability and responsible risk assessment. New tools support corporate compliance and evidence-based decision-making.

MSc Marketing & Digital Communication: transparency and brand integrity

ESG ratings and sustainability disclosures influence brand image, communication strategies and consumer expectations. Transparency is now a central component of responsible marketing.

Seminar Summary

This online seminar, organised with the University of Groningen, examined key mechanisms of sustainable finance and organisational accountability.

Over 90 minutes, speakers addressed ESG regulation, reporting standards, climate risk, and the strategic implications of transparency for corporate governance. Participants explored how ESG indicators influence investment decisions, organisational performance and long-term value creation.

Designed for all MSc students, the session demonstrated the transversal nature of ESG across supply chain, luxury, digital business, analytics and marketing fields. The seminar positioned green finance as an essential area of knowledge for future managers operating in competitive and international environments.

Academic insights and professional implications

The session, featuring contributions from EMLV faculty including Prof. Nazim Hussain, brought together academic perspectives and applied insights. Key discussion points included:

• Emerging regulations in sustainable finance
• The growing influence of ESG ratings on investment decisions
• Transparency as a component of governance and risk management

How ESG metrics reshape business models and sector strategies

This interdisciplinary approach strengthens students’ ability to understand regulatory shifts, analyse ESG data and integrate sustainability into decision-making processes.

Open to MSc students, corporate partners and alumni, the seminar created an opportunity for exchange on emerging trends and organisational accountability. The partnership with the University of Groningen reinforces the international dimension of the MSc programmes and supports exposure to diverse academic perspectives.

This inaugural session confirms the central role of ESG in shaping managerial practices and equips MSc students with analytical tools applicable across disciplines. It contributes to the EMLV’s objective of preparing future managers for the ethical, regulatory and societal transitions affecting global industries.

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