maximizing impact through genuine connections + collaboration
At qb., we know that creating effective ESG policies, protocols, and oversight requires hard work and behavioral change, which is why we're shining a spotlight on the individuals who are leading the charge. In our new series: “ESG Leaders + Governance”, we highlight the people behind the transformational actions and programs that are shaping the future of business. We’ll talk to ESG leaders from different industries and backgrounds, we'll delve into the challenges they've faced, the strategies they've employed, and the lessons they've learned along the way.
Stephanie Dolmat, senior director ESG at global talent solutions firm Robert Half and global consulting subsidiary Protiviti, followed an unconventional career path to get her in the ESG arena. Her unique background allows her to bring a fresh perspective to the field, approaching her entreprisewide role as a sustainability translator, community builder and advocate. Learn how Robert Half's mission and core values inspire her to further their impact as an ethical and socially responsible organization.
published 11.15.23
Here’s Stephanie’s advice for creating impact together:
Don’t worry about where you started - there are many paths in this field
My journey began with a background that seemingly had little to do with sustainability. I ventured into teaching English in France, worked in logistics for a foreign company and even enjoyed a few winters as a ski instructor. However, my pivotal moment arrived when I visited my brother at the University of Vermont, where he was completing a degree in environmental studies. After attending a few of his classes, I was struck by the potential of sustainability and its far-reaching impact. The spark was lit, and I realized that this was the path I wanted to pursue. This epiphany led me to the Bren School of Environmental Science and Management at UC Santa Barbara, where I embarked on a journey to explore the multifaceted world of sustainability. It doesn't matter where you start; through learning and collaboration, anyone can contribute to a more sustainable future. I believe that diverse backgrounds make individuals stronger practitioners.
Learn the art of translation
One of the most valuable pieces of advice I received during my academic journey was from a graduate professor at UCSD who emphasized the crucial need for translators in the world of sustainability. Translators are individuals who bridge the gap between different languages communicated within organizations. Whether it's the language of finance, science, or policy, translators help convey the importance of sustainability to diverse stakeholders. This advice has been and remains the cornerstone of my approach to ESG.
Work with what you got first
My approach is further fueled by staying agile within our work ecosystem and reframing existing efforts. At Robert Half and Protiviti, the values of integrity, inclusion, innovation and commitment to success are ingrained into everything we do. My role connects the dots between these values and our material topics to inform how we drive our ESG strategy and programs. By demonstrating how our company's existing initiatives align with ESG values and material topics rather than introducing entirely new processes. It's about maximizing existing efforts and making them visible in the context of ESG.
Build strategic connections
My background in operational sustainability provided me with a skill set that influences effectively, collaborates cross-departmentally, and drives sustained change. I recognize that sustainability isn't just about altering buildings, products and processes but about connecting with individuals to build a shared vision of a sustainable future.
A significant milestone in our enterprise’s ESG journey has been establishing a direct reporting line to the CEO for our corporate social responsibility matters. This move signaled Robert Half's commitment to holistically integrating programs and initiatives under our material topics across our entire workplace ecosystem. This requires effective cross-departmental communication so that colleagues are aware of what we are doing and understand the impact of our efforts on our people and our stakeholders. We not only have top-down commitment but also the enthusiasm and engagement of employees at all levels. I've witnessed the power of collaboration, where employees are eager to understand the company's ESG initiatives and contribute to them. Collaboration is paramount and it has been instrumental in my journey.
Go for progress, not perfection
Data collection and reporting are perpetual challenges in the world of ESG, especially with evolving regulations. It is essential to acknowledge that perfection isn't the goal; continuous improvement is. My company started with what we had, we have learned from our experiences, and we continue to adapt as new regulatory changes emerge.
Find YOUR community
While driving impact is continuous, hard work, for me, building a community within the sustainability space has been a source of inspiration and support. Whether you're part of a large corporation or a one-person ESG team in a smaller company, having a network of peers and mentors is invaluable. Sharing experiences, problem-solving, and solidarity with like-minded professionals makes the journey far less daunting. Finding your people can help you maintain personal sustainability and continue to drive change.
Thanks for reading. ✨ If you’re interested in learning more about working with us, drop us a line.
