Guy Shaw

Solid foundation in data

“I started my career as a trainee at a major bank in the United Kingdom when I was 18 years old. That was my first introduction to the financial industry. Back then, my work focused primarily on data management and IT - the hard, technical side, so to speak. I spent eight happy years at that bank, but by the end I was ready for something new. In 2020 I came to the Netherlands and joined ABN AMRO, where the informal, friendly atmosphere came as quite a surprise!”

Data and sustainability  

“Having joined ABN AMRO as a data consultant working for the overarching organisation, I soon ended up at ABN AMRO Asset Based Finance (ABF), a subsidiary that provides clients with financing for assets such as vehicles and equipment. Three years after joining that subsidiary as a data expert, I was given an opportunity to shift my focus to sustainability, which has become my field of expertise. I can now use my data skills to achieve future-oriented goals. For example, I’m currently trying to gain more insight into our portfolio’s carbon emissions and explore how we can accelerate the sustainability transition. That data will help to bring about change in the real world.”

Practical sustainability 

"Within ABF, we actively focus on promoting future-proof choices. We help clients invest in assets such as electric vehicles, and also encourage them to select sustainable options more generally. I also work closely with outside organisations to obtain more accurate data on the emissions of assets. Besides helping us improve our own reports, it also enables us to provide better guidance to our clients that are making their transition to a sustainable future."

Putting our shoulders to the wheel

“My team includes all kinds of experts who focus on different aspects of sustainability, ranging from rules and regulations to product development. In addition to carrying out sustainable projects, our goal is to embed sustainability throughout the organisation and ensure everyone ‘starts thinking sustainably’. ABF has a flat organisational structure, which is quite unusual. It feels like a small, close-knit community within a larger organisation, and collaborating is much easier because everyone knows each other.”

Long-term view

“Achieving sustainability within the financial sector is not easy. It’s complex and it also costs money. I’ve come to realise, however, that real change can only come from within. Banks have a crucial role to play by making funds available for sustainable goals. I believe ABN AMRO shares that view and is undertaking initiatives to enable change even in situations where that isn’t particularly commercially advantageous. That’s pretty unique in our industry.”

Focus on the future 

“Making sustainability part of ABN AMRO’s DNA calls for vision, patience and close collaboration. I think all those elements can be found within our bank. When it comes to the future, I’d really like to grow into a strategic role so that I can contribute to this mission at a strategic level. I feel I’m given enough space to do that at ABN AMRO, so I’m very confident. Although the road to a fully sustainable future is long, I’m certain we can make a difference, thanks to our people and our culture.”