Board Capital and CEO Power Configurations to Promote ESG Performance: The Case of the European Banking Industry

IF 8.3 2区管理学 Q1 BUSINESS

Corporate Social Responsibility and Environmental Management Pub Date : 2025-01-06 DOI:10.1002/csr.3106

Nieves Remo-Diez, Cristina Mendaña-Cuervo, Mar Arenas-Parra

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Abstract

Board capital and CEOs are powerful actors in improving companies' ability to implement effective sustainability strategies, balance stakeholder interests, and align corporate governance with sustainable objectives. This ultimately leads to higher environmental, social, and governance (ESG) scores. This study explores the combined effect of board capital (specific skills, tenure, gender diversity, and affiliations) and CEO power (formal and informal) in achieving high ESG performance by linking resource dependence theory to complexity theory. Using a qualitative fuzzy-set comparative analysis and data on European banks from 2018 to 2020, we find that regardless of the CEO's formal power, banks need an informally powerful CEO or board members with important advisory capabilities for managers in their decision-making activities. In contrast, a powerful CEO, both formal and informal, reduces the effect of board capital in terms of ESG disclosures. The argument that “one size” does not fit all is confirmed. It offers valuable insights into strategic decision-makers and banking supervisory authorities when setting and monitoring guidelines for board composition.

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来源期刊

Corporate Social Responsibility and Environmental Management Multiple-

CiteScore

17.20

自引率

16.30%

发文量

189

期刊介绍： Corporate Social Responsibility and Environmental Management is a journal that publishes both theoretical and practical contributions related to the social and environmental responsibilities of businesses in the context of sustainable development. It covers a wide range of topics, including tools and practices associated with these responsibilities, case studies, and cross-country surveys of best practices. The journal aims to help organizations improve their performance and accountability in these areas. The main focus of the journal is on research and practical advice for the development and assessment of social responsibility and environmental tools. It also features practical case studies and evaluates the strengths and weaknesses of different approaches to sustainability. The journal encourages the discussion and debate of sustainability issues and closely monitors the demands of various stakeholder groups. Corporate Social Responsibility and Environmental Management is a refereed journal, meaning that all contributions undergo a rigorous review process. It seeks high-quality contributions that appeal to a diverse audience from various disciplines.