Professional Services ESG – March 2021 – May 2021

This quarter, ESG scores improve across the board with the minor exception of Kearney which matches its previous score. Accenture, Booz Allen Hamilton and PwC comprise the top 3 ranking, with positive drivers for these firms including Employee Engagement, Diversity & Inclusion, Human Rights & Community Relations and GHG Emissions, which each generate a positive sector impact greater than 20%.

The strong ESG narrative delivered by the sector raises expectations of delivery however, with KPMG, BCG, Deloitte and McKinsey all facing criticism for perceived failures to live up to their own position. This ‘said vs done’ narrative is a particular focus for critics of professional services firms, given their vocal leadership in the ESG field.