Our Corporate Responsibility Strategy
Corporate Responsibility is embedded in Bertelsmann’s corporate strategy as an “enabler” and thus serves as a guiding principle for everyone in the company. A centrally defined strategic direction is implemented decentrally within the divisions, allowing for entrepreneurial flexibility.
At the Group level, the Bertelsmann Corporate Responsibility Council – chaired by the Group’s Chief Human Resources Officer – brings together Group and senior executives from the divisions. They drive the strategic advancement of Corporate Responsibility across the Group while contributing operational perspectives from their respective businesses.
Corporate Responsibility objectives, projects, and initiatives are implemented at the divisional level. In line with local requirements, the divisions and companies have established their own structures and processes.
In addition, subject-matter experts from the divisions engage in regular exchanges on relevant topics through numerous cross-divisional working groups and networks.
At the Group level, the Corporate Responsibility department – operating as a staff function of the Chief Human Resources Officer – coordinates and supports the work of the Corporate Responsibility Council, as well as the working groups and networks, in collaboration with other central Group functions.
