Sustainability is on top of the agenda
Astrid has worked with sustainable finance at SEB in Copenhagen since 2021. Her key focus is to challenge, advise and support both clients and colleagues in the transitions to a low-carbon economy.
“At SEB we are convinced that we can influence the development towards a more sustainable economy by supporting our clients on their transition journey. As a part of the Sustainable Banking-team I collaborate with both clients and our colleagues to accelerate the transition to a low-carbon economy. This includes advisory on target setting for the present and the future, and thereby actively supporting the net zero transition making peer analyses, supporting clients in staying updated on the regulatory aspects of sustainable finance. In the process we aim to both challenge our clients in their work within sustainability, be an active advisor on sustainable finance and how to link their financing with their sustainability targets and strategies."
Why did you choose to work with sustainable finance?
“Firstly, the ever-changing topics of sustainability. That being politically and regulatory, within research, or through our work with clients and sustainable finance.”
"Today sustainability is on top of the agenda in almost every part of society, evolving at a rapid pace and driving progress for people, businesses and the planet. To me, this is as relevant and rewarding as it gets. At the same time, it is challenging. You need to be curious and eager to learn, to stay on top of relevant trends and market developments. Right now, biodiversity is an overriding theme. Water and circularity are other topics to keep a close eye on. In other words, it is not enough to know your way around the field of CO2 anymore."
"You need to build on your knowledge every day, and that’s really motivating. Adding to that, workdays within Sustainable Banking are never the same. Every day and case by case you expand your knowledge, which is very rewarding.”
What makes your job exciting?
“Every day I get to work closely with the most knowledgeable people in the finance industry and collaborate with ambitious and innovative clients."
"Working within Sustainable Banking you work across both divisions and geographies, meaning that you build close relations both to colleagues across SEB and clients in various industries."
How would you describe your work environment?
“Working at SEB in Denmark you share your everyday work life with around 340 colleagues in a very dynamic workplace. The environment is characterised by a flat hierarchy, open doors and allows for developing new skills and embracing opportunities.”
“At the same time, working in Sustainable Banking you collaborate with colleagues across geographies on an everyday basis, so you really get a feeling of being part of a leading northern European financial services company driving transformations for a better future."
What innovation do you hope is coming in the future?
"I hope that we will see an increase in investments allocated towards the green transition as this is an absolute necessity if we want to meet the Paris agreement and transition into a low carbon society."