The profession of ESG Analyst
The ESG ("Environmental, Social, and Governance") Analyst is a key professional in the field of sustainable and responsible finance. This three-dimensional approach assesses how a company manages its environmental impact, engages in social responsibility, and practices ethical and transparent governance.
The ESG Analyst plays a crucial role in evaluating the environmental, social, and governance performance of companies.
Words from our alumni
"This is a profession where it is important to
stay constantly informed about current events"
Can you tell us a bit about your professional background?
After earning a baccalaureate in economics, I completed a bachelor’s degree in economics and management (specializing in applied economics), followed by a master’s in public policy (specializing in corporate policies and social responsibility) at Dauphine.
As part of this master’s program, I did several internships: at PEXE, the association of eco-companies in France; then at Choose Paris Region in impact investing; and finally at BNP Paribas in the CSR department, where I worked on regulations surrounding sustainable finance.
I completed my master’s with an internship in governance at Ecofi, a 100% SRI asset management company and a subsidiary of Crédit Coopératif. I was able to turn this internship into a full-time position and joined Ecofi as an SRI Analyst.
What does an ESG Analyst’s job consist of on a daily basis?
If I were to summarize the typical tasks of an ESG Analyst, I would group them into four main areas:
- Analyzing the extra-financial or ESG performance of companies we invest in and anticipating the risks they are exposed to
- Shareholder engagement: meeting and engaging with companies to understand their challenges and support them
Can you tell us a bit about your professional background?
After earning a baccalaureate in economics, I completed a bachelor’s degree in economics and management (specializing in applied economics), followed by a master’s in public policy (specializing in corporate policies and social responsibility) at Dauphine.
As part of this master’s program, I did several internships: at PEXE, the association of eco-companies in France; then at Choose Paris Region in impact investing; and finally at BNP Paribas in the CSR department, where I worked on regulations surrounding sustainable finance.
I completed my master’s with an internship in governance at Ecofi, a 100% SRI asset management company and a subsidiary of Crédit Coopératif. I was able to turn this internship into a full-time position and joined Ecofi as an SRI Analyst.
What does an ESG Analyst’s job consist of on a daily basis?
If I were to summarize the typical tasks of an ESG Analyst, I would group them into four main areas:
- Analyzing the extra-financial or ESG performance of companies we invest in and anticipating the risks they are exposed to
- Shareholder engagement: meeting and engaging with companies to understand their challenges and support them in adopting best ESG practices
- Anticipating regulatory changes to implement the most innovative practices in SRI (Socially Responsible Investment)
- Participating in the labeling process of our funds to ensure our clients the robustness of our approach and the commitment of our funds
What aspect of this job interests you the most?
ESG research and analysis: this is a sector where practices are constantly evolving. You must be able to analyze these changes and understand the strategies of the different companies and sectors in which we invest, to ultimately propose the most suitable funds for our clients' aspirations and convictions.
Similarly, it’s also important to be able to identify the assets and issuers that our clients do not want to be exposed to. Our added value is this qualitative analysis, which is the result of continuous research and monitoring.
Why did you choose Université Paris Dauphine-PSL for your training?
Today, there are very few programs that prepare students for the role of SRI Analyst. I chose to pursue my education at Dauphine because it allowed me to train on extra-financial issues at the heart of the SRI sector.
What is the most essential skill the Master’s program has provided you to succeed in this field and that you still use today?
My analytical skills in understanding social and environmental issues are, without a doubt, the most useful in this role. I was able to develop these skills through my master’s in public policy, specializing in social responsibility issues.
What advice would you give to a student considering a career in transformation consulting?
This is a profession where staying informed about current events in all fields is crucial. Intellectual curiosity is therefore a real strength. A dual expertise in financial and extra-financial matters is also a significant advantage.
Alix Roy
ESG Analyst
His background :
Master’s in Corporate Policies and Social Responsibility - 130
Role and responsibilities of the ESG Analyst
The ESG Analyst is responsible for analyzing data related to the environmental, social, and governance practices of companies. They assess how these factors can impact a company’s performance and reputation. This role can be performed in extra-financial rating agencies or within asset management companies.
Daily tasks
The missions of an ESG Analyst are as follows:
- Evaluate the environmental policies and practices of companies
- Analyze the social impact of a company's activities
- Examine governance structures and ethical practices
- Provide recommendations to improve ESG performance
Salaries and career progression
At the start of their career, an ESG Analyst can expect a gross annual salary of around €35,000 to €45,000. With experience, this salary can rise to €70,000 to €90,000. Career advancement opportunities include leadership roles in sustainability or ESG strategic consulting.
Required skills
- Knowledge of ESG issues: Deep understanding of environmental, social, and governance aspects.
- Data analysis: Ability to interpret and analyze complex data to assess ESG performance.
- Critical thinking: Ability to objectively evaluate information and identify ESG trends and risks.
- Research skills: Ability to conduct thorough research and stay informed on the latest ESG trends and regulations.
- Interpersonal skills: Ability to work effectively in teams and build strong professional relationships.
What studies are required to become an ESG Analyst ?
To become an ESG Analyst, studies in finance, economics, sustainability, or social sciences are recommended. A deep understanding of environmental, social, and governance issues is essential.
Training to Become an ESG Analyst at Université Paris Dauphine-PSL
Université Paris Dauphine-PSL offers two Master’s programs aligned with the profession of ESG Analyst:
A Master 2 in Corporate Policies and Social Responsibility, which trains students in analytical and methodological tools to understand and support companies' social and environmental practices.
A Master 2 in Energy, Finance, and Carbon, which prepares economists specializing in industrial and economic strategies related to energy and the environment.
These programs offer in-depth and relevant training for those aspiring to become ESG Analysts, providing the necessary skills to navigate the complex challenges of sustainability and corporate social responsibility.