Sustainability is no longer an option—it is an obligation within the European Union framework. With the enforcement of the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), companies are required to integrate ESG criteria (Environmental, Social, and Governance) into their corporate reports. This regulatory shift is transforming how organizations manage their strategy and talent.
Companies affected and key timeline
The CSRD significantly expands the number of companies required to report on sustainability. Below is a breakdown of the implementation timeline:
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Companies subject to the NFRD:
- Application: From January 1, 2024
- Report Submission: 2025
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Large companies not subject to the NFRD:
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Listed SMEs and other specific entities:
- Application: From January 1, 2026
- Report Submission: 2027
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Non-EU companies with significant operations in the EU:
- Application: From January 1, 2028
- Report Submission: 2029
Organizational transformation: Structural impact
The implementation of the CSRD is reshaping businesses:
- Internal Changes: 48% of European companies have already adapted their structures, while 39% have redefined their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) function.
- Strengthened Internal Teams: More organizations are hiring sustainability specialists to handle these challenges autonomously.
- Strategic Sustainability: In Spain, 44% of sustainability leaders are now part of the executive committee.
Collaboration between departments and financial constraints
Collaboration between CSR and finance teams has increased significantly, with 80% of companies reporting greater alignment in their efforts. However, despite 85% of organizations increasing their sustainability budgets, 55% of sustainability managers still consider the allocated resources insufficient to fully comply with the directive.
The role of talent in sustainability
The CSRD is driving demand for specialized talent:
- Sustainability Managers: Highly sought after to ensure regulatory compliance and lead ESG strategies.
- Training & Development: Companies need skilled teams to integrate sustainability across all departments.
At Servitalent, we have observed a growing demand for specialized professionals. With our expertise in strategic talent acquisition, we help companies recruit the right leaders to drive the transition toward a sustainable and compliant business model.
Is your company ready to comply with the CSRD directive?