Job change My efforts of networking, blogging and job searching have finally paid off. On 10/2, I will be starting a new position at Charles Schwab Investment Management as Manager of Compliance. The new role will meet some, but not all, of the objectives I set out at the start of my search. I will still be working in the "mainstream" rather than Socially Responsible Investment sphere. The position will help me complete the CFA requirements and will bring me closer to the investment management process. The organization will be closer to my values of environmental sustainability and progressive politics though. On studying proxy voting records of the top mutual fund companies, I noted that Schwab supported many of the environmental resolutions sponsored by shareholders while Wells Fargo Funds opposed all. I hope the new position will give me an opportunity to encourage spread of the ideas behind "triple-bottom line" thinking to a new organization.

Goals:

1). Use the opportunity to beef up my credentials (complete CFA paperwork to claim the designation, renew securities licenses - 7 & 63 and acquire whatever additional licenses, such as the 24, my new employer deems beneficial).

2). Continue to grow my network through meeting new colleagues, LinkedIn and professional associations.

3). Maintain high professional standards and reputation to become more influential within my new workplace.

4). Explore opportunities to pitch SRI to Schwab after educating myself on the existing investment decision making process. Would like to explore use of sustainability metrics (GRI e.g.) in conjunction with the Schwab Equity Ratings.

5). If my research bears it out and if I manage to have access to decision makers, make a business case that SRI can work for Schwab. With over $160 billion in current assets under management, success could have a major impact on the "mainstreaming" of SRI.  ¶ 10:09 AM 0 comments links to this post

  AB 32 - California takes lead on Climate Change I wrote to Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today to thank him for his support of AB 32 - California's initiative to combat Global Warming by setting caps on CO2 and other greenhouse gas emissions. I believe the bill and other pending legislation will push us in the right direction and will drive public opinion nationally and internationally towards sustainability. I'd encourage others to send encouragement to the Governor and thanks to the legislators who drafted these measures. Here is the Governor's link for comments: http://www.govmail.ca.gov/

Here is the note I sent him today - feel free to poach from it:

Dear Governor Schwarzenegger,

I want to thank you, Governor Schwarzenegger, for your leadership on the issue of Global Warming. I applaud your courage in pushing past the objections of powerful business interests and the bias of your party to step up and do the right thing. I believe that in setting tough standards and high goals for reductions in greenhouse gases you have shown the world that by following California’s example, we can counter this threat. I applaud you also for letting the market, through the emissions trading system, play a role in rewarding companies that outperform peers.

There is still much more to be done while attention is on this issue – big business has been asked to do its part – the people of the most populous state can be asked to do more! Our lifestyle choices as consumers and commuters have an impact. By adjusting energy consumption patterns to use appliances outside of peak hours, consumers make it possible for utilities to meet demand with a greater proportion of energy from renewable sources. We’ve taken the simple step of hang-drying our laundry rather than using the dryer. We’ve taken steps of moving towards a plant-based diet and favoring local organic produce.

Commuting choices have a very real impact on emissions. Every person who opts for telecommuting, carpooling, public transit or bicycling not only reduces their own energy consumption but also helps relieve traffic and congestion that lead to idling engines and waste by others. Everyone can help here,

• Employers: by offering CommuterChecks to employees, allowing telecommute options, providing changing rooms, shower and bike storage areas.
• Urban planners and developers: by taking access to transit into account when designing cities or siting new buildings.
• Opinion leaders: by raising awareness and by encouraging new behavior.

Thank you again for your leadership and courage! Please keep up your efforts, re: supporting other environmental legislation.

  ¶ 4:07 PM 0 comments links to this post