We've partnered with Patrick Hemmelder, an ESG specialist with the right SPYNE DNA to make complex reporting requirements manageable.
As ESG standards become increasingly essential in today’s business landscape, many companies find themselves questioning how to incorporate these practices into their strategy and reporting structures. At SPYNE, we recognize the growing importance of ESG and the role it plays in shaping a company's financial and ethical foundation. That's why we've partnered with Patrick Hemmelder, an ESG specialist with the right SPYNE DNA to make complex reporting requirements manageable. With the launch of the SPYNE ESG label, we extend our ambitions to service our clients with the same pragmatic ‘getting things done’ approach as for our other services.
Patrick Hemmelder’s journey into ESG reporting started with his background as a chartered accountant, with a career spanning over a decade at the Big Four, where he managed audit clients and led accounting and reporting teams. Seeking a more dynamic role, he moved to Groendus, a startup focused on sustainability, where he gained hands-on experience in ESG reporting. Since then, he has dedicated his career to helping businesses meet the growing demand for ESG compliance.
“Given the state of the world and my own desire to contribute positively, especially for my kids, ESG reporting was a natural direction for me”, Patrick shares. “It’s not just about ticking boxes; it’s about creating a transparent, sustainable future for the next generations.”
Though the importance of sustainable business practices isn’t new, the urgency has escalated in recent years. From the Paris Climate Agreement to the EU Green Deal, regulatory bodies have made it clear that companies must account for their impact on the environment, society, and governance practices. The result? A structured framework that businesses need to adopt and report on.
For many organizations, this can feel like a challenge, especially with impending regulatory deadlines. As Patrick explains: “For large, publicly listed companies, ESG reporting requirements start as early as 2024, with other large enterprises following in 2025. The clock is ticking, and the sooner companies understand their data gaps, the quicker they can address them.”
While some businesses view ESG reporting as a burden, Patrick encourages companies to see it as an opportunity. By proactively aligning their values with ESG principles, companies can attract environmentally conscious customers, improve employee satisfaction, and position themselves as forward-thinking leaders in their industries.
“Companies that truly embrace ESG can set themselves apart from competitors”, Patrick notes. “It’s more than just risk mitigation. A strong ESG strategy can enhance a company’s brand, making it more appealing to potential clients, partners, and even future talent.”
At SPYNE, we understand that ESG reporting can feel complex and overwhelming. That’s why we prioritize a practical approach, offering services that are tailored to meet the needs of each client. With Patrick on board, we focus on simplifying the process, from compliance with regulations to delivering tangible ESG outcomes.
Our ESG audit support includes:
Patrick emphasizes the importance of meeting companies where they are in their ESG journey: “Some companies may only need guidance on specific aspects of reporting, while others may need a full-service approach, including data collection, reporting, and compliance support.”
ESG reporting isn’t just a task for the finance department. It requires collaboration across various divisions within a company. Environmental data might involve input from production or logistics teams, while social metrics often require HR insights. Governance factors may call for the expertise of compliance and risk management.
“You need a multi-departmental approach to make ESG reporting successful”, Patrick says. “From HR and compliance to procurement, each department plays a role in contributing to a cohesive and accurate ESG report. That’s why I focus on making the process practical, so everyone involved knows their part and how it contributes to the bigger picture.”
One of the main challenges Patrick encounters is the misconception that ESG reporting is simply an add-on to existing roles. In reality, it often demands dedicated attention and can stretch resources if not managed carefully. Companies frequently find themselves short on time, expertise, or data.
“Some companies see ESG reporting as a necessary but burdensome task, while others recognize its strategic value”, Patrick explains. “The key is to find the right balance. Sometimes, that means helping businesses with one specific part of the process, like data collection, and in other cases, taking on the entire ESG reporting process so that they can focus on their core activities.”
With regulatory deadlines looming, Patrick advises companies to begin their ESG journey sooner rather than later. For companies that fall under the regulatory thresholds, ESG reporting requirements are on the horizon, and starting the process now can make all the difference.
“Early adopters have a unique advantage”, Patrick points out. “They have the time to identify data gaps and work towards a compliant and impactful reporting structure. Waiting too long can lead to rushed reporting and missed opportunities for meaningful improvement.”
At SPYNE, we’re committed to helping businesses develop an ESG framework that not only meets regulatory standards but also creates long-term value. Patrick’s practical approach aligns with our philosophy of simplifying complex requirements, making ESG reporting accessible and effective.
Whether you need guidance on specific ESG reporting elements or a full-service approach, SPYNE is here to support you. Together, we can build a financial and ethical backbone that prepares your company for the future.
Ready to elevate your ESG strategy? Connect with us to learn how we can assist you in creating a robust ESG foundation.
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