Nefal Barrak
Managing Partner, Kreston NBB Saudi
ESG in financial services: hardwired in business DNA
April 28, 2026
ESG is no longer social and environmental window dressing. It’s essential to long-term business value and companies looking to make the most of it need to invest in digital tools.
Implementing ESG in financial services
Innovation, digital transformation, and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives are no longer separate efforts but are deeply integrated to drive long-term business value and resilience. Digital tools like AI, are essential for achieving ESG goals.
They enable real-time monitoring of carbon emissions, supply chain transparency, and efficient resource management. “Strong ESG performance can actually accelerate digital transformation by attracting better investment and reducing financial constraints, as many modern investors prioritise sustainable companies,” said Nefal Barrak, Managing Partner of Kreston NBB Saudi for Professional Consulting Company.
Modern ESG in financial services
As of early 2026, several technologies have become standard in these initiatives. Such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) is used to automate complex ESG reporting, normalise disparate data sets, and analyse climate risks. The market is now shifting from annual reports to real-time ESG dashboards that provide continuous performance snapshots for stakeholders. “The adoption of the modern technologies not only benefits the environment but also enhances operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness for businesses,” said Nefal. “In recent years, sustainability through digital transformation has emerged as a critical focus for institutions looking to drive positive environmental and social impact while ensuring the long-term business viability and profitability.”
Being able to take advantage of new technology developments demands that staff training is now a continuous, strategic process, rather than a one-off event. “Modern organisations prioritise talent management to bridge skill gaps and build a resilient leadership pipeline,” said Nefal. “Strategic talent development focuses on long-term growth through personalised learning pathways, mentorship, and on-the-job experiences rather than just immediate skill training.”
To develop a robust leadership pipeline, organisations need to first build a leadership competency framework. They can then assess employees against those competencies and provide developmental interventions. Effective talented leadership enables organisations to drive innovation, execute business strategy, and gain competitive advantage. The organisations must spot leadership potential early and groom talent systematically into leadership roles.
