BNP Paribas Real Estate (BNPPRE) UK has hired Donna Rourke as director of environmental, social and governance (ESG).

In the newly-created role, Rourke will be responsible for driving ESG strategy, and integrating and embedding ESG into day-to-day business.

The latest appointment is part of BNPPRE’s growth plans for its ESG offerings and capabilities, and follows the recent creation of four other new positions in the property management team.

At BNPPRE, she will set ESG targets and achieve sustainable solutions in collaboration with both the senior leadership in commercial, residential and rural business lines, as well as with external industry partners.

Rourke joins BNPPRE from the University College of Estate Management, where she led the marketing communications and brand team.

Previously, she has held leadership roles in commercial real estate, residential property and student accommodation firms.

Rourke is a founding member of the Global Responsible Futures Network and volunteers with the Youth Adventure Trust.

Etienne Prongué, CEO of BNPPRE UK, said: “Donna’s appointment signals our desire to continue to build and deliver a competitive and compelling offering in this crucially important area.

“Executing against our ESG efforts and creating a positive impact across our business is imperative to delivering value to our clients and Donna will be a critical partner in these efforts. I’m thrilled to welcome her to the firm as we continue to build our ESG platform.”

Rourke added: “I was attracted to this role because we have a shared view that the real estate sector has a pivotal role to play in mitigating the impact of climate change and creating resilient communities.”

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