ESG performance and risk management software, data and consulting services provider Sphera announced today the appointment of insurance and capital markets veteran David Batchelor as Chairman of the board of directors.

Sphera works with organizations around the world to help them surface, manage, and mitigate ESG risk in the areas of Environment, Health, Safety & Sustainability, Operational Risk Management and Product Stewardship. The company was acquired last year by alternative investment manager Blackstone in a deal valuing Sphera at $1.4 billion, and recently announced an alliance with global professional services firm PwC, providing PwC’s clients with access to Sphera’s ESG software solutions.

Batchelor said:

“It’s an exciting time to be heading up the board as Sphera continues to bring innovative ESG solutions to market to help companies on their path to net zero. It’s also a pivotal time, with investors, stakeholders and regulators alike casting a more discerning eye toward ESG and sustainability reporting. I look forward to guiding the effort to help Sphera’s customers meet and exceed their own sustainability goals—while ensuring that we set and maintain the global gold standard ourselves.”

Batchelor’ risk, insurance and capital markets-focused career spans 40 years, including nearly two decades at global risk advisory firm Marsh, where he served as Vice Chairman from 2015 to 2019, and also led the group on emerging sustainability risks associated with climate change. Batchelor also currently serves as non-executive chairman with Talbot Underwriting at Lloyd’s of London, and as an advisor to private equity and venture capital funds. 

Paul Marushka, Sphera’s CEO and President, said:

“David has been at the forefront of ESG initiatives, and I welcome him to our board of directors. David’s extensive global executive experience and deep understanding of all aspects of risk management will assist Sphera as it continues its growth trajectory across geographies and markets. Enabling companies to make informed, data-based decisions to mitigate risk and achieve their sustainability goals is central to advancing our mission of creating a safer, more sustainable and productive world.”