#71 - Beyond Dollars: The Power of Sustainable Stewardship, Jackie VanderBrug (Head of Sustainability Strategy @ Putnam Investments)

Episode notes

In this episode of the Investing in Integrity podcast, Ross Overline , CEO and co-founder of Scholars of Finance , speaks with Jackie VanderBrug , Head of Sustainability Strategy at Putnam Investments , a division of Franklin Templeton. At Putnam, Jackie is responsible for leading the company’s ESG-focused business functions, including stewardship, engagement, partnerships, and ESG strategy and integration. She is also a member of Putnam's operating committee. Join them as Jackie shares her journey from economic research to leading sustainability at Putnam, where she emphasizes the integration of financial material ESG factors to drive long-term business value. The discussion also touches on the importance of career development over monetary gain, the evolving landscape of ESG, and the role of gender lens investing in creating positive societal impact. Jackie debunks misconceptions about gender lens investing and highlights its potential to enhance risk-adjusted returns. The episode concludes with a discussion on socio-economic inclusion, the role of finance professionals in driving change, and advice for aspiring and seasoned financial leaders.