The Career Orientation Week, titled "Career in ESG / CSR" held at Sofia University’s Faculty of Economics and Business Administration from October 13 to 19, 2024, began with a discussion on "Accounting and Auditing Aspects in ESG / CSR". The discussion highlighted the importance of accuracy, transparency, and the new requirements in this process, as well as the need for qualified personnel to effectively implement these standards.

Evgenia Troanska from the Institute of Certified Public Accountants emphasized the personal and social dimensions of ESG in audit practices, stressing that audit teams should engage in both professional and personal development aligned with social standards. This includes volunteer work and other initiatives that enhance both professional capacity and social responsibility within the team. Troanska also noted that the licensing process for auditors authorized to audit ESG reports is underway, requiring specific qualifications, with a new certification methodology involving around 60 hours of training. A new auditor registry will also provide information on licensed specialists.

Auditors face challenges convincing companies to adopt ESG standards. According to Troanska, some businesses view these requirements as obstacles rather than opportunities, and auditors need to persuade companies that ESG reporting is not only mandatory but can bring long-term financial benefits.

Darina Tsukeva from UniCredit Bulbank presented the perspective of automation in accounting and process management for ESG reporting, noting that the audit profession is rapidly changing, with many routine tasks being automated, allowing for better process management. She pointed out the need for systems that provide essential information for effective ESG practice management.

Vasilena Vasileva from PwC highlighted the complexity of ESG reporting, which requires the collaboration of all company departments. She emphasized that ESG accountability is a collective responsibility that cannot be delegated to a single person or department.

As ESG standards expand, companies may need to create new expert roles to meet these requirements, underscoring the need for additional expertise and specialized assistance to ensure accurate reporting.

The Career Orientation Week continued with a discussion on "Environmental Aspects in ESG / CSR”, illustrating how companies and experts are working towards sustainable business practices with a focus on topics like circular economy, waste reduction, and energy efficiency.

Dima Genova from the National Environmental Institute emphasized that the environmental aspect of ESG is highly dynamic and constantly evolving. Upcoming training programs by the institute will focus on specific ESG practices and corporate environmental sustainability.

Genova pointed out that Europe leads the world in environmental sustainability legislation, with strict regulations requiring companies to adapt their business models to meet these standards, such as reducing carbon emissions and using renewable energy sources.

Elena Kuleva from Humana shared the company’s long-standing commitment to social responsibility and environmental sustainability. Humana, which began in Denmark in the 1970s, continues to support sustainable projects by providing access to healthcare and education in Africa.

Navzad Yumerov from Festo Bulgaria discussed the company’s energy efficiency efforts and the importance of fostering an environmental culture among employees. Yumerov emphasized that creating a culture of sustainability within the company is essential.

In the middle of the week, the discussion topic shifted to "Financial Aspects in ESG / CSR". According to participants, career development will increasingly be linked to ESG, as companies rely more on these specialists to build sustainable business models.

Kiril Yanchev from UBB noted that large global companies already prioritize sustainable development in their statements, showing that ESG is a long-term trend rather than a temporary phenomenon.

Mila Nenova from the Bulgarian Investment Agency noted that companies failing to integrate ESG as part of their core strategy risk falling behind in the future, where sustainability will be integral to business.

Iliya Lingorski from the Bulgarian National Bank emphasized that ESG is an integral part of the future of business and finance, though integrating it into existing business models poses challenges, it also opens new growth opportunities.

One of the key ideas highlighted was that ESG is not just a financial tool but a value-creating discipline, and companies that invest in ESG will have a future advantage, while those that fail to adapt will fall behind.

The fourth discussion, "Human Resources Management in CSR / ESG" stressed the importance of human capital and the need for organizations to adapt to the green transition and digital transformation.

Zornitsa Rusinova from the Economic and Social Council stressed the importance of human capital as a key resource in ESG. She noted that sustainability affects not only business but everyday life. Rusinova foresees a long transition period, highlighting the need for environmental responsibility both as employers and citizens.

Rosen Ivanova from Acibadem City Clinic discussed challenges related to finding and retaining qualified employees, noting that Bulgaria lacks around 35,000 healthcare specialists.

Maria Georgieva from Pluxee shared experiences from a project where they had to quickly find experts to implement a digital product, ultimately growing their team by 40%. Georgieva stressed that ESG standards require all teams to mobilize, and specialists must be curious and adapt to business changes.

Victor Jerassi from Pluxee emphasized that even small actions matter in the ESG context and noted the need for ethical codes for supplier behavior.

The career week concluded with the discussion "Managerial Risks and Opportunities in ESG / CSR" highlighting challenges and opportunities in integrating ESG principles into business strategies.

Petya Manastirska from Devin AD shared that although sustainable thinking is not new to the company, there is now greater focus on stakeholder perceptions of their actions.

Pelagia Viacheva from Sopharma noted the challenges of acquisitions and mergers, which involve managing various risks and meeting ESG standards.

Vincent Gilles from Infinity Group shared that Africa presents a significant energy opportunity but that finding a critical mass of workers to support ESG principles remains challenging. He emphasized that companies need to communicate honestly about where they stand and their actions, with ESG integration seen as a strategic move rather than a core activity.