The role of Chief Financial Officers (CFOs) within the property sector continues to evolve as they are increasingly being called upon to navigate a dual mandate of balancing financial priorities with sustainability goals. Today’s CFOs are no longer confined to traditional financial oversight; they are becoming active participants in driving sustainable practices across their organisations.
The UK is amongst more than 20 countries that have now adopted the International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) IFRS S1 and S2 standards, which require companies to issue a Sustainability Report disclosing material information about their sustainability-related risks and opportunities, including climate-related disclosures, in addition to the usual annual Financial Report. Australia, Singapore and other jurisdictions will be joining this cohort in 2025, so sustainability reporting should be top of mind for CFOs in their upcoming reporting periods.
CFOs now work closely with operations and sustainability teams to implement energy-efficient technologies, optimise energy use with advanced data analytics, and explore renewable energy options. These initiatives are essential to meet regulatory requirements and satisfy the expectations of investors and stakeholders who demand accountability for environmental impact.
With detailed energy usage and emissions metrics, CFOs can demonstrate the financial and environmental benefits of energy-saving initiatives. This data-driven approach is essential in justifying investments to boards and stakeholders, enabling CFOs to show how energy efficiency contributes to profitability and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) targets. By partnering closely with other departments, CFOs are effectively aligning financial goals with broader sustainability objectives, showcasing their company’s commitment to responsible corporate citizenship.
As sustainability becomes a core priority, accurate financial reporting and the integration of ESG metrics are vital. CFOs are increasingly expected to include transparent energy consumption and emissions data in financial disclosures, aligning with emerging regulations and investor demands. This approach is not just about compliance; it’s about building trust and demonstrating the company’s commitment to sustainable, long-term value creation.
Financial leaders are now at the forefront of sustainability efforts. This shift is critical for companies aiming to future-proof their operations, meet regulatory expectations and standards including the IFRS S1 And S2 Standards, and enhance their reputation as responsible industry players. As CFOs embrace this expanded role, EP&T Global remains committed to supporting them with the insights and technology to drive data-informed, sustainable decision-making.
