This symposium is funded by Ragnar Söderbergs stiftelse
Introduction
Geopolitical Context
The world of ESG – Environmental, Social, and Governance – is at a crossroads. Recent years have seen a marked shift in the political and regulatory landscape, with the United States stepping back from its previous support for ESG policies and the European Union adopting a more measured approach, as exemplified by the evolving implementation of the CSRD and CSDDD. These developments raise critical questions about the future of sustainability in business, particularly for family-owned companies, which often operate under a distinctive set of values and governance structures.
Purpose of the Conference
As the ESG landscape continues to evolve, there is a growing need for dialogue that goes beyond traditional expert presentations. This event is designed as a dynamic forum for open discussion among stakeholders, with the aim of exploring how ESG principles can continue to thrive in a changing environment. The conference is supported by Ragnar Söderbergs Stiftelse and The Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences, whose involvement highlights the importance of these discussions and the value of shared insight.
Focus
A particular focus will be placed on family businesses. Unlike listed companies, family firms are often shaped by the values and vision of their founders, making their approach to sustainability both deeply personal and culturally significant. As these businesses grow and gain market influence, they must also contend with the complexities of antitrust and competition law. The conference will explore how family businesses balance their commitment to ethical practices with the need to comply with legal frameworks. This is especially relevant in the context of supply chains, where increasing regulatory demands for transparency and responsible sourcing require family businesses to implement sustainable practices throughout their networks while remaining competitive and compliant.
Collaboration
Throughout the day, the conference will bring together voices from academia, industry, and practice to share experiences and perspectives. Rather than simply presenting solutions, the event is designed to foster a collaborative exchange, one that acknowledges the challenges, celebrates the successes, and looks ahead to the evolving role of ESG in family business. By emphasizing dialogue and shared learning, this conference aims to inspire new ideas and practical approaches for embedding sustainability at the heart of business for years to come.
Organizing committee: Julian Nowag (HKU and Lund) and Marco Corradi (ESSEC)
Program
08.30 Registration
09:00 – 09:10 Welcome & Opening Remarks
Julian Nowag (HKU/Lund) & Marco Corradi (ESSEC Business School)
09:10 – 09:50 Keynote Address
Belén Villalonga (NYU Stern School of Business)
PANEL 1: The ‘G’ in ESG: Governance, Law, and the Future of the Family Firm
09:50 – 11.25
Moderator: Marco Corradi (ESSEC)
Speakers (15 min each):
Mario Daniele Amore (Bocconi University)
Lusina Ho (Hong Kong University)
Ernest Lim (National University of Singapore)
Hanna Almlöf (Linköping University)
Industry representative (tbc)
Panel Discussion and Q&A: 20 min
11:25 – 11:50 Coffee Break
PANEL 2: Dialogue, Investor Relations, Performance, and Disclosure
11:50-13:25
Moderator: Julian Nowag (HKU/Lund)
Speakers (15 min each):
Anete Pajuste (Stockholm School of Economics)
Suren Gomtsian (London School of Economics)
Marco Mismetti ((Stockholm School of Economics)
Marco Corradi (ESSEC)
Industry representative (tbc)
Panel Discussion and Q&A: 20 min
13:25 – 14:25 Lunch break
PANEL 3: ESG in the Value Chain: Navigating Supply, Competition, and Regulation14:25 – 16:00
Moderator: Belén Villalonga (NYU Stern)Speakers (15 min each):
Silvia Grandi (Bologna University and CNR)
Massimo Baù (Jönköping University)
Suren Gomtsian (LSE)
Julian Nowag (HKU/Lund)
Marco Corradi (ESSEC)
Industry representative (tbc)
Panel Discussion and Q&A: 20 min
16:00 – 16.20 Coffee break
PANEL 4: Reflections panel and open discussion in the Value Chain: Navigating Supply, Competition, and Regulation.
17.30- 18-30 Drink reception
The event is free of charge and open to the public but registration is required.
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Kontakt: Veronika Eriksson
E-post: veronika.eriksson@kva.se