The Translator: Bridging the Gap Between Finance and Sustainability

Is your organization ready for the SOX journey of sustainability data?

In this episode of The Pre-Read, we sit down with Lori Defnet, ESG Controller at The Hershey Company, to define the core remit of this emerging role. While traditional controllers guard the known, ESG controllers manage ambiguity. Lori shares how she navigates moving targets in the regulatory landscape and why curiosity and adaptability are the most critical skills for the next generation of finance leaders.

Key moments: 02:45—Defining the core remit of an ESG controller 05:30—The data challenge: ERP systems vs. supplier surveys 08:15—A "crawl, walk, run" approach to limited and reasonable assurance 11:40—Stakeholder management: Education and empathy 13:50—Will the ESG controller role eventually merge with finance? 17:15—Curiosity and adaptability in succession planning

"I think the role of that ESG controller is that translator to help teach the business and teach the finance organization how to get there." —Lori Defnet

Find past conversations at workiva.com/podcast/the-pre-read

#ESG #Accounting #Sustainability #FinanceTransformation #Workiva