We are pleased to have Erika Susanto join our Black Sun team as Research Manager. Find out more about Erika's position and her passion for research in the interview below. 

Tell us a little bit about your background and why you joined Black Sun

I am a research professional with a passion for data-driven research, thanks to my training in Statistics. Having worked in the consulting industry for a number of years, an international move prompted me to start my own consultancy. I was looking for a new challenge when I came across this role at Black Sun, and I thought it to be a unique opportunity to contribute my knowledge in expanding an already robust research program within a new industry. Besides, I’ve never worked in a palace before! 

What does your role involve and what are you most looking forward to?

My role involves working with various groups across our business to understand the communication challenges that our clients and their companies face, so we can craft research to support them. I have met with many ‘Black-sunners’ through this and gained so much knowledge that I can’t wait to put it down on paper! I also look forward to working with our colleagues in Singapore to consolidate our research thoughts on international best practice to maximise our collective insights for clients. 

What are the most exciting opportunities for business in the reporting space going forward?

In a word, authenticity. I think that the Six Principles of Trust mentioned in our ‘Ecosystem of Authenticity’ research are still highly relevant as a lens to view opportunities in the reporting space. These principles include Purpose, Culture, Stakeholders, Diversity, Wider Value Creation and Long-term Thinking, concepts that remain topical now. Naturally there is increased attention on sustainability and its influence in reporting, and I think these topics still fit in well within that arena too. This is especially true when viewed in light of the Government’s intent to publish an interim report that will examine progress on the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD), and a 2022 review on climate reporting progress against the Green Finance Strategy. While some may view this as a challenge, the reporting process is an opportunity for companies to review whether their business is resilient to climate change and shape more authentic disclosure to meet stakeholder needs.

What do you read/follow for learning and knowledge sharing?

I try to get a good breadth of information by following various news and organisations on LinkedIn. Financial Times, Harvard Business Review, Financial Reporting Council and Investor Relations Society are some of them. The platform is great for knowledge sharing as well. 

Connect with Erika at [email protected].