Do you want to know more about the vice president of corporate social responsibility? If so, this article is worth reading for you. Read on to learn more.
Vice President of Corporate Social Responsibility: Roles
The role of the vice president of corporate social responsibility (CSR) is to oversee, coordinate and lead the organization’s efforts in corporate social responsibility. This means the vice president of CSR is responsible for the implementation of all company programs and activities that promote social, economic, and environmental sustainability.
Lead the Organization’s Efforts in Corporate Social Responsibility
The vice president of corporate social responsibility leads the organization’s efforts in promoting social, economic, and environmental sustainability. In this role, he/she coordinates with other departments to ensure that all business operations are conducted in a socially responsible manner.
Works with External Stakeholders on Company’s CSR Initiatives
Additionally, the vice president works with external stakeholders like consumer advocacy groups, labor unions, and environmental organizations to ensure that company policies and practices are consistent with the interests and expectations of various stakeholders.
Develops Company’s CSR Strategy
In developing the CSR strategy, he/she takes into account internal and external factors that could affect company operations and reputation. These factors include economic conditions, technological changes, competitive dynamics, political environment, demand for natural resources, and community needs. The vice president develops a program that aligns with company objectives while fulfilling social responsibilities.
Formulates Company’s CSR Implementation Framework
He/she formulates a framework to implement the company’s CSR initiatives including projects, programs, or activities that help fulfill its overall mission as well as address stakeholder expectations on an ongoing basis. These measures help ensure that CSR initiatives deliver tangible benefits to society at large as well as stakeholders like employees, customers, and suppliers.
Oversees Company’s CSR Implementation Efforts
The vice president oversees all aspects of implementation including
- monitoring project or program performance;
- clarifying project scope;
- providing support where necessary;
- resolving issues;
- initiating corrective actions;
- gathering data;
- providing training to employees;
- following up on projects or programs implementation;
- evaluating achievements against targets set in the initial strategy development process;
- documenting lessons learned and reporting to top management.
Communicates with External Stakeholders on Company’s Performance
In communicating with external stakeholders, the vice president of corporate social responsibility communicates about the company’s CSR policies and practices both internally and externally. Internally, he/she informs employees about CSR initiatives through workshops or seminars. Externally, he/she meets with civic groups and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to discuss company policies and practices. He/she is also tasked to communicate about the organization’s environmental performance such as carbon footprint reduction efforts and energy conservation efforts.
Maintains Strong Relationships with Stakeholders
The vice president of corporate social responsibility maintains good relationships with various stakeholders including shareholders, labor unions, trade unions, consumers, suppliers, customers, government agencies, and other community groups. He/she meets with these stakeholders frequently to ensure that they are aware of company policies and practices in fulfilling corporate social responsibilities. Moreover, he/she resolves their issues promptly by working closely with other project leaders in the organization.