Cornis van der Lugt

Background

About Cornis van der Lugt

A head of product development once asked me if I`m a quant. I replied by saying I`m more of a qual. Amidst all the excitement about data and its science today, I like to challenge analysts and managers by asking the “why” question before they jump into that big Excel. Considering language philosophy, it is useful to remember that much of AI is based on the recognition and processing of words, i.e. qualitative text. My passion is enabling the different disciplines involved in this process to effectively talk to each other, as opposed to talking past each other. Climate science is a case in point. I`m a seasoned professional with extensive experience in sustainability management and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) research. Since the 1990s, I have worked internationally in this field and have been deeply involved in the development of standards commonly used today. I am passionate about leading diverse teams and educating managers to raise the bar, innovatively advancing the sustainability journey. Throughout my career, I have held roles such as leader, manager, advisor, researcher and educator, specializing in sustainable finance, integrated investment management, integrated accounting and reporting, as well as strategy, governance and quality control. I find great joy in collaborating with others to build bridges between finance and sustainability, connecting different communities of expertise. Since 2022, my role at S&P Global has been incredibly rewarding, allowing me to witness first-hand how ESG data processing on companies world-wide is taken to scale. Leading the development of a new materiality methodology for determining ESG scores covering 62 industries has been an incredible experience. Prior to this, transitioning from the United Nations to consulting tested my management skills in both the public and private sectors. I partnered with consulting organizations based in Zurich, Geneva, Berlin, Paris, Cape Town, Melbourne and Sao Paulo, enhancing my international network of experts in the commercial and non-profit sectors. I look forward to working with you, advancing sustainability to the strategic and qualitative value it truly deserves.