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Zlata Podolyan

@zlatapodolyan

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ESG and sustainable finance analyst with a passion for responsible investing.

Romania

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What I'm looking for

I am looking for a role that fosters sustainability and responsible investing, with opportunities for growth and collaboration.

I am an ESG and sustainable finance specialist with over three years of international experience in corporate governance analysis. My background in economics fuels my strong belief in the power of responsible investing. I view ESG as a practical tool that connects financial performance with real-world impact, enabling companies and investors to act more responsibly and sustainably.

Currently, I work as an ESG Associate Analyst at Morningstar Sustainalytics, where I conduct in-depth ESG and corporate governance analysis across multiple global markets. My role involves researching and evaluating over 300 publicly traded companies, delivering insights that support responsible investment strategies. I have developed a proprietary Excel-based tool that automates calculations for shareholder dissent and governance indicators, improving research efficiency significantly.

My academic credentials include a Master's in International Economic Relations and certifications in ESG Investing and CSRD reporting. I am committed to continuous learning and exploring new ideas in sustainability, always seeking better ways to link finance with positive change.

Experience

Work history, roles, and key accomplishments

Current

ESG Associate Analyst

Current

Morningstar Sustainalytics

Jan 2022 - Present (3 years 5 months)

Conducted in-depth ESG and corporate governance analysis across 10+ global markets, including US, Canada, and Japan. Researched and evaluated over 300 publicly traded companies, delivering insights that support responsible investment strategies. Authored detailed ESG reports covering board independence, shareholder rights, executive remuneration, and audit structures.

ESG Corporate Governance Financial Analysis Report Writing Microsoft Excel Data Automation Market Training Knowledge Sharing

Lead Economist

Bank Vostok

Jan 2021 - Present (4 years 5 months)

Reviewed and processed high volumes of online applications for banking services, maintaining high accuracy and compliance with regulations. Performed risk assessments and financial analysis to support client onboarding and account approvals.

Risk Assessment Financial Analysis Compliance Onboarding Data Processing Banking High Accuracy Regulatory Compliance

Project Manager

Enactus ONU

Jan 2018 - Present (7 years 5 months)

Initiated and led a grant-winning socially impactful project converting plastic waste into tactile toys for visually impaired children, supported by the National Youth Council and UNICEF. Managed a cross-functional team of 9 volunteers, overseeing project planning, budgeting, and product development.

Project Management Team Leadership Budgeting Product Development Social Inclusion Volunteer Management

Education

Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework

Odesa National Academy of Food Technologies

Ph.D. in Food Technology and Beauty Industry, Food Technology and Beauty Industry

Pursued advanced studies in food technology and the beauty industry, focusing on research and development within these fields. Engaged in specialized coursework and potentially thesis work related to innovative practices and sustainable solutions.

Odesa National Academy of Food Technologies

Master’s in Food Technology and Beauty Industry, Food Technology and Beauty Industry

Completed a master's program in food technology and the beauty industry, gaining in-depth knowledge and practical skills. Focused on advanced concepts and methodologies relevant to the industry.

Odesa National National Mechnikov University

Master’s in International Economic Relations, International Economic Relations

Obtained a master's degree with a focus on international economic relations, analyzing global economic trends and policies. Developed expertise in economic analysis and international trade dynamics.

Odesa National National Mechnikov University

Bachelor’s in International Economic Relations, International Economic Relations

Completed a bachelor's degree in international economic relations, building a foundational understanding of global economic principles. Engaged in coursework covering economic theories, international trade, and financial markets.

Freie Universität Berlin

Exchange Program, Economics

Grade: DAAD Euler Scholarship Recipient, Thesis on Corporate Mergers & Acquisitions

Participated in an exchange program, broadening academic and cultural perspectives. Focused on coursework relevant to corporate mergers and acquisitions, culminating in a thesis.