Research Analyst – ESG Controversies

Let’s be #BrilliantTogether

ISS STOXX is seeking a highly motivated and experienced ESG Research Analyst to join our Norm-Based Research team in Mumbai within the Sustainability Research business unit. Our new team member will predominantly assess corporate controversies concerning business malpractice including themes like accounting fraud, bribery, money laundering and anti-competitive behaviour.

Overview:

The Norm-Based Research team focuses on conducting comprehensive research and analysis of corporate involvement in practices that may conflict with internationally recognized standards and guidelines for responsible business conduct, such as those outlined by the United Nations (UN) Global Compact and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises. The team compiles analysis reports on over 26,000 publicly listed companies, covering the constituents of major global indices (large, mid, and small-cap). Our research contributes to investors' decision-making processes by evaluating companies' adherence to global norms on anti-corruption, human rights, environmental protection, and labor standards. The team is based in Mumbai (India), Manila (Philippines) and Stockholm (Sweden).

The successful candidate will be trained to work both independently and collaboratively with the team across different locations, researching companies, relevant business activities, and corporate controversies. Our new colleague will work with the team to draft research reports on these companies and contribute to the maintenance of high-quality ESG analyses. They will focus primarily on corporate controversies relating to alleged violations of global norms on business malpractice including themes like accounting fraud, bribery, money laundering and anti-competitive behaviour. Key capabilities required for the role include strong analytical, writing, and communication skills, as well as a keen eye for detail and a well-organized approach to independent and collaborative work in a team.

Responsibilities:

• Conduct thorough desk research on alleged corporate involvement in activities or practices that may conflict with international standards and guidelines, utilizing information from stakeholders and companies (e.g., Annual Reports, sustainability reports, and company websites), and engaging in dialogue with relevant parties.

• Monitor ESG controversies, contribute to standardized research reports, and participate in peer review processes to ensure comprehensive and timely coverage.

• Present research findings to clients and address client enquiries effectively.

• Contribute to team initiatives and processes aimed at enhancing our ESG product offering.

• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to improve the quality of input and output data, while supporting NBR workflow and continuous process improvement.

Qualifications:

Professional skills and qualifications:

• A postgraduate degree in a relevant field (e.g., Business Ethics and Compliance, Law, International studies, Management studies, Finance, Economics, Political Science, Public Policy, Journalism, Humanities, Sustainability etc. )

• Strong interest in Business, Human rights, Governance, International Politics, Legal and Securities Regulation analysis, Corporate Criminal Law, Accounting irregularities, etc.

• 0-2 years of demonstrated research and analysis skills.

• Proficient writing and communication skills. (Research papers, Editorial/report publications etc.)

• Fluency in English. Additional languages are an asset.

• Exceptional organizational and time management skills.

• Good understanding of international norms related to ESG, responsible investment, and sustainability.

Personal skills:

• Strong work ethic and attention to detail.

• Reliable and ability to thrive in a fast-paced and dynamic environment. Self-motivated to meet deadlines, manage multiple tasks, and prioritize effectively.

• Client-centric mindset and strong interpersonal skills, enabling both independent work and collaboration within a team.

• Initiative-driven with a proactive approach.

#ANALYST

#ESG

#LI-KK1

What You Can Expect from Us

At ISS STOXX, our people are our driving force. We are committed to building a culture that values diverse skills, perspectives, and experiences. We hire the best talent in our industry and empower them with the resources, support, and opportunities to grow—professionally and personally.

Together, we foster an environment that fuels creativity, drives innovation, and shapes our future success.

Let’s empower, collaborate, and inspire.

Let’s be #BrilliantTogether.

About ISS STOXX

ISS STOXX GmbH is a leading provider of research and technology solutions for the financial market. Established in 1985, we offer top-notch benchmark and custom indices globally, helping clients identify investment opportunities and manage portfolio risks. Our services cover corporate governance, sustainability, cyber risk, and fund intelligence. Majority-owned by Deutsche Börse Group, ISS STOXX has over 3,400 professionals in 33 locations worldwide, serving around 6,400 clients, including institutional investors and companies focused on ESG, cyber, and governance risk. Clients trust our expertise to make informed decisions for their stakeholders' benefit. 

ISS Sustainability Solutions enable investors to develop and integrate sustainable investing policies and practices, engage on responsible investment issues, and monitor portfolio company practices through screening solutions. ISS Sustainability Solutions also provides climate data, analytics, and advisory services to help financial market participants understand, measure, and act on climate-related risks across all asset classes. In addition, our solutions cover corporate and country ESG research and ratings enabling its clients to identify material social and environmental risks and opportunities.  

Visit our website: https://www.issgovernance.com       

View additional open roles: https://www.issgovernance.com/join-the-iss-team/      

Institutional Shareholder Services (“ISS”) is committed to fostering, cultivating, and preserving a culture of diversity and inclusion. It is our policy to prohibit discrimination or harassment against any applicant or employee on the basis of race, color, ethnicity, creed, religion, sex, age, height, weight, citizenship status, national origin, social origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression, pregnancy status, marital status, familial status, mental or physical disability, veteran status, military service or status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law (referred to as “protected status”).  All activities including, but not limited to, recruiting and hiring, recruitment advertising, promotions, performance appraisals, training, job assignments, compensation, demotions, transfers, terminations (including layoffs), benefits, and other terms, conditions, and privileges of employment, are and will be administered on a non-discriminatory basis, consistent with all applicable federal, state, and local requirements.