Position:Global head of sustainability, real estate

Country:United Kingdom

What is the measurable positive impact from implementing ESG?

Sasha, or Aleksandra Njagulj, has made a significant and measurable positive impact on the implementation of ESG practices within the corporate construction and real estate sector. Her leadership roles in various key committees and organisations, particularly her work with INREV, underscore her exceptional contributions.

Sasha's role in the ESG Committee for INREV (European Association for Investors in Non-Listed Real Estate) is particularly noteworthy. As the Chair of this Committee, she plays a vital role in advancing sustainable practices across the European real estate landscape. Her active participation in developing white papers and advice documents regarding regulatory frameworks such as the EU Taxonomy, Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation (SFDR), and UK Sustainable Disclosure Regulation (SDR) showcases her commitment to navigating and implementing these regulations effectively within the real estate sector.

One of Sasha's key responsibilities within INREV is delivering regulatory training in the Advanced ESG Course. Her dedication to educating industry professionals about these regulatory frameworks ensures that real estate investments are aligned with the latest sustainability standards and compliance requirements. This educational effort is crucial in fostering a comprehensive understanding of how regulatory changes impact ESG implementation in real estate.

In addition to her training initiatives, Sasha's accomplishments include integrating ESG principles into DWS' global real estate portfolios and ensuring alignment with EU Taxonomy regulations. She has also been instrumental in developing and effectively communicating sustainability priorities, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.

What kind of technology or innovations does the nominee implement regarding ESG?

Sasha is not only an advocate for the use of cutting-edge technology and innovation within the corporate construction and real estate sector but actively supports their development as well. Her involvement in various technology-driven initiatives underscores her commitment to advancing sustainable practices in the industry.

One notable example of Sasha's engagement in technology-driven sustainability solutions is her role on the Customer Advisory Board for Measurabl. Measurabl is a platform that specializes in ESG data management and reporting for real estate. As a member of the Customer Advisory Board, Sasha provides valuable insights and feedback to shape and enhance this innovative platform. Her involvement not only demonstrates her endorsement of technology but also ensures that Measurabl remains a valuable tool for ESG implementation within the sector.

Furthermore, Sasha's participation in the Global Scientific and Investor Committee of CRREM (Carbon Risk Real Estate Monitor) highlights her dedication to leveraging technology for sustainability. CRREM is a ground-breaking initiative that assesses and manages the carbon risk of real estate assets. Her presence on this committee signifies her active role in advancing the development of tools and methodologies that enable investors and industry professionals to navigate and mitigate carbon risk effectively.

In addition to her involvement in Measurabl and CRREM, Sasha's innovative mindset extends to her broader approach to technology and innovation, where she seeks opportunities to incorporate digitalization and open innovation into real estate practices. Her commitment to embracing and supporting these advancements not only enhances efficiency but also reinforces her position as a thought leader in the integration of technology for ESG implementation within the corporate construction and real estate sector.

How does the nominee implement ESG at a bigger scale?

Sasha is instrumental in driving the implementation of ESG practices at a larger scale within the corporate construction and real estate sector. Her leadership roles in key committees and organizations emphasize her exceptional contributions to advancing sustainability on a broader scale.

As the Chair of the Real Estate Sustainability Committee for GRESB (Global ESG Benchmark for Real Assets), Sasha plays a pivotal role in shaping the sustainability agenda for the real estate industry. GRESB sets the global standard for ESG benchmarking and reporting in real assets, making her chairmanship a cornerstone in ensuring that the sector aligns with robust sustainability criteria.

Furthermore, Sasha co-chairs the Real Estate Working Group at IIGCC (Institutional Investors Group on Climate Change), where she actively collaborates with stakeholders to address critical sustainability challenges. Her co-chair role within IIGCC underscores her commitment to fostering industry-wide change and advocating for sustainability at a significant scale.

Through her leadership in GRESB and IIGCC, Sasha not only influences ESG implementation within individual organizations but also contributes to the development of industry-wide standards and practices. Her dedication to these roles amplifies her impact and solidifies her position as a driving force behind the adoption of sustainable practices across the corporate construction and real estate sector.

How does the nominee show leadership and help the industry to move forward?

Aleksandra (Sasha) Njagulj is a true industry leader who has made significant contributions to advancing ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) practices within the corporate construction and real estate sector. Her multifaceted approach to leadership, advocacy, and innovation has helped propel the industry forward in several key areas:

Commitment to ESG Integration: Sasha's role as Managing Director and Global Head of ESG at DWS Group showcases her dedication to integrating ESG principles into global real estate portfolios. This commitment aligns with EU Taxonomy regulations and reflects her determination to drive sustainable investment practices.

Navigating Regulatory Frameworks: Sasha's expertise extends to navigating complex regulatory frameworks such as the EU Taxonomy, Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation (SFDR), and Sustainable Disclosure Regulation (SDR). Her work in delivering regulatory training ensures that industry professionals understand and adhere to these regulations, promoting compliance and accountability.

Technology and Innovation: Sasha not only embraces technology and innovation but actively supports their development. Her roles on advisory boards, such as Measurabl and her involvement in initiatives like CRREM, highlight her commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology and tools for sustainable real estate practices.

Leadership in Industry Organizations: Sasha's leadership roles in key industry organizations, including chairing the Real Estate Sustainability Committee for GRESB and co-chairing the Real Estate Working Group at IIGCC, underscore her influence in shaping industry standards and practices. Her efforts have a profound impact on driving ESG implementation at a larger scale.

Educational Initiatives: Through her roles in various committees and organizations, Sasha actively contributes to educational efforts, sharing her knowledge and insights on ESG integration, regulatory compliance, and technological advancements. This commitment to education furthers the industry's understanding of and engagement with sustainability.

Sasha's leadership, advocacy, and innovative spirit have been instrumental in advancing ESG practices within the corporate construction and real estate sector. Her dedication to integrating ESG principles, navigating regulatory frameworks, supporting technology and innovation, and shaping industry standards highlight her outstanding contributions to moving the industry forward on a sustainable and responsible path. Sasha's multifaceted approach exemplifies her role as a true industry trailblazer and thought leader.