The integration of business practices into a company’s business model that consider factors other than profit, such as sustainability or a positive impact on the community, is known as corporate social responsibility. The needs and values of the company’s stakeholders are frequently reflected in these socially responsible practices. While corporate social responsibility jobs do not have a clearly defined career path or typical job titles, they frequently involve marketing, managing or overseeing programs, or monitoring a company’s investments.
Some businesses make their efforts in corporate social responsibility a central part of their brand. Corporate social responsibility can be incorporated into jobs in public relations, marketing, communications, and other positions that involve promoting a company’s image. A marketing manager for a clothing retailer, for example, might be responsible for creating ad campaigns and social media strategies that promote the company’s sustainable business practices. Such a business may want its stakeholders to know that its products are made with a high percentage of renewable materials like bamboo or cotton, or that its factories require fair wages and ethical working conditions. The marketing manager must ensure that this information is readily available to customers and that they are taught to associate the company with social responsibility.
People with program management experience may be qualified for jobs in corporate social responsibility. A director or manager of corporate social responsibility may be asked to keep an eye on vendors and suppliers to ensure that the company’s products are sourced from companies that practice environmentally friendly business practices. For example, a grocery store chain that sells seafood may want to keep track of its suppliers’ fishing practices and only work with those who ensure that marine habitats are not harmed. Another director of corporate social responsibility might be in charge of managing corporate sponsorships, forming non-profit partnerships, or overseeing the investment of company funds, volunteers, or other resources.
Jobs in corporate social responsibility are also available in the financial sector. When determining a company’s rating, a security analyst, for example, might look at its corporate social responsibility policies and practices. Similarly, an investment manager may work for a financial investment firm and offer socially responsible investment packages to its clients directly. There are also mutual fund companies that specialize in “green funds,” or socially responsible investments, and the financial professionals who work for these firms frequently approach businesses to explain the financial and social benefits of these investments.
Those looking for jobs in corporate social responsibility may discover that employers prioritize workers with transferable skills. Although specific experience in sustainability or social responsibility is not always required, corporate social responsibility management jobs almost always require some management experience or training. As a result, those interested in entering this broad field should gain experience managing in a specific field while also volunteering or joining community or environmental clubs. A person seeking a career in this field may also choose to enhance his credentials by earning a degree or professional certificate from a sustainability-focused program.