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2024/10/03

Explore TeamViewer’s Improved ISS ESG Rating: Insights from CFO Michael Wilkens

  • CSR Impact Article
    • Sustainability and CSR

    TeamViewer is proud to announce the improvement of our Institutional Shareholder Services (ISS) ESG rating, rising from C to B-, and placing us 6th out of 311 companies as of August 2024.  This significant improvement reflects the dedicated efforts we've invested in strengthening our environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices, guided by our c-a-r-e sustainability framework. We have made progress in key areas, particularly around employees' well-being and data protection, while continuing to excel in customer security.

    ISS is a leading provider of corporate governance and responsible investment solutions, market intelligence, fund services, and events and editorial content for institutional investors and corporations, globally. 

    Thanks to this achievement, we have secured a place in the prestigious sustainability focused index, STOXX DAX ESG 50+. This index comprises companies that are top performers in terms of ESG, making TeamViewer’s inclusion a testament to its continuous efforts in sustainability and governance. 

    TeamViewer’s CFO, Michael Wilkens, sat down with us and discussed this important accomplishment and what it means to TeamViewer. 

    Interview with Michael Wilkens, TeamViewer’s CFO:

    Q1: What does TeamViewer's inclusion in the STOXX DAX ESG 50+ index signify for the company, particularly in terms of its sustainability and ESG goals?

    Michael Wilkens: Our inclusion in the STOXX DAX ESG 50+ index is a significant milestone that validates the progress we’ve made in embedding ESG principles into our core business strategy. 

    This is a direct result of our improvement in the ISS ESG rating reflecting the work we’ve done to not only improve our environmental practices but also to strengthen our governance and foster a more inclusive, socially responsible company culture. It highlights our commitment to reducing our environmental footprint, empowering our employees, and ensuring that we operate with transparency and integrity. This achievement underscores that sustainability is not just an add-on for TeamViewer, but an integral part of how we create long-term value.

    Q2: How has TeamViewer's focus on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) initiatives contributed to this achievement, and what are the key milestones or efforts that led to the improvement of the ISS ESG rating?

    Michael Wilkens: Over the past few years, we’ve made significant strides in advancing our ESG initiatives. On the environmental side, our primary focus has been on reaching net zero by 2040, which is ten years ahead of the Science-Based Targets initiative (SBTi) timeline. Last year alone, we reduced our emissions by 15% and made investments in CO2 removal technologies to complement our reduction journey.

    On the social level, we have implemented a mental health solution to support employee well-being. In terms of governance, we’ve strengthened our data security measures to ensure the protection of both customer and internal data, which was a key factor in our ISS ESG rating improvement.

    Q3: How does TeamViewer’s inclusion in the STOXX DAX ESG 50+ index impact its relationships with stakeholders, including investors and partners?

    Michael Wilkens: Being included in the STOXX DAX ESG 50+ index strengthens our credibility and positions us as a leader in ESG within the tech industry. For our investors, it serves as a clear indication that we are deeply committed to long-term sustainability, aligning with the expectations of ESG-focused stakeholders who prioritize strong governance and responsible practices.

    Additionally, this recognition sends a powerful message to our partners and customers. It demonstrates that we are not just focused on financial performance, but on creating lasting, ethical value in the digital ecosystem. It deepens our relationships with stakeholders by showing that we are a forward-thinking company committed to positive, sustainable change.

    Q4: What future ESG initiatives or projects is TeamViewer focusing on to maintain and further improve its standing in sustainability-focused indices?

    Michael Wilkens: We still have an ambitious journey ahead of us, particularly in achieving our net zero goals and enhancing our engagement with our supply chain following the World Economic Forum scope 3 action plan. A key short-term goal is to establish a supplier engagement plan, targeting 30% of our suppliers by 2025, and expanding that to engage with 67% by 2026 In the longer term, we are committed to ensuring that our suppliers set Scope 1, 2, and 3 targets to align with a net zero pathway by 2050.

    Our team is dedicated to not only maintaining our standing in sustainability-focused indices but also continuing to lead and innovate within the technology sector, ensuring we remain at the forefront of ESG best practices.