Addressing ownership and accountability over sustainability reporting process of investment holding company

• Main Author: Tiquia, Laurence Paolo S.
• Format: text
• Language: English
• Published: Animo Repository 2020
• Subjects: Sustainable development reporting; Business Administration, Management, and Operations
• Online Access: https://animorepository.dlsu.edu.ph/etd_masteral/6207; https://animorepository.dlsu.edu.ph/context/etd_masteral/article/13257/viewcontent/Tiquia_LaurencePaulo_11793376_1_Redacted.pdf
• Institution: De La Salle University

This action research addressed the lack of ownership and accountability over the sustainability reporting process of an investment holding company. The main issue was determined through the engagement with collaborators from different departments involved in the process using various inquiry tools. The root cause analysis performed resulted in the identification of the main issue from various manifestations such as unavailable interim data, lack of improvement in some sustainability indicators, lack of proactive monitoring of performance, and confusion over roles and responsibilities. A cross-functional team worked on the project through the design and implementation of a performance measurement tool, and through a role clarification exercise. The first cycle resulted in a structured approach to monitoring sustainability indicators. The second cycle integrated accountability over the process in the day-to-day functions of responsible individuals. Constant communication and open feedback among the members of the team ensured that interventions are practical and adaptable to routine activities. During the course of the action research, my collaborators appreciated the tools and exercises implemented which allowed them to better manage sustainability aspects assigned to them. I realized the complexities of working in cross-functional teams and the need to manage not just my superior’s expectations but also other department members’ perspectives and our overall working relationship.