Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Course Name:
Strategic Management
Submitted to:
Associate professor
Submitted by:
Jannatul Mawoa
ID- 2024161104
Faculty of Business Studies
Bangladesh University of professionals
Date of submission: 17.10.2023
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in
BRAC Bank Limited
Letter of Transmittal
Dr. Ummay Salma
Associate professor
Faculty of Business Studies
Bangladesh University of Professionals
Thank you for considering my work. I appreciate the opportunity to explore and analyze
BRAC Bank Limited's CSR practices, and I am honored to share my findings with your
esteemed institution.
Yours sincerely,
Jannatul Mawoa
ID- 2024161104
Faculty of Business Studies
Bangladesh University of professionals
Executive Summary
This paper delves into the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives of BRAC Bank,
evaluating their impact and implications for the bank's sustainable development. Through a
comprehensive analysis of both quantitative and qualitative data, this study reveals several
key findings. BRAC Bank boasts a diverse and well-established CSR program, exemplifying
its commitment to social and environmental responsibility. Over time, the bank has
consistently increased its CSR spending, bolstering its reputation, and fostering customer
loyalty. Stakeholders, including employees and customers, predominantly hold positive
perceptions of the bank's CSR endeavors, enhancing its brand image. Notably, many CSR
projects have been successful in achieving their intended objectives, particularly in areas
such as education and healthcare. However, challenges related to measuring long-term
impact and ethical dilemmas persist. The implications underscore the need for continued
engagement with stakeholders, rigorous impact assessment, and transparent communication
of achievements. Overall, BRAC Bank's CSR practices demonstrate a commitment to
sustainability, benefiting both its brand image and the well-being of the community.
Table of Contents
Contents
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Abbreviations
“CSR@BRAC Bank"
This abbreviation is concise and effectively conveys the focus of the research paper, highlighting
the relationship between CSR and BRAC Bank. The "@" symbol is commonly used to represent
"at" or "in," making it a suitable choice for this abbreviation.
1. Introduction
The background study should establish the context for the research and convey the relevance of
the study on BRAC Bank's CSR to the broader field of corporate social responsibility and the
banking industry.
The background study of a research paper about Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) of in
which the research is conducted. Here is a framework for the background study:
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR): CSR is a concept that refers to a company's commitment
to operating in an ethical and responsible manner, beyond its primary goal of profit
maximization. CSR involves a company considering the social, environmental, and ethical
impacts of its business activities and making efforts to positively contribute to society and
minimize negative externalities. CSR Practices are crucial in BRAC Bank for several reasons.
3. Community Engagement: CSR activities allow BRAC Bank to engage with and understand
the needs of the local communities it serves, fostering goodwill and trust.
4. Stakeholder Expectations: Stakeholders, including customers, investors, and regulatory
authorities, increasingly expect organizations like BRAC Bank to demonstrate a commitment
to social and environmental responsibility.
5. Risk Management: Engaging in CSR helps BRAC Bank mitigate risks associated with
negative environmental and social impacts, which could affect its reputation and long-term
sustainability.
CSR is not just a moral imperative but also a strategic necessity for organizations like BRAC
Bank. It enables them to create a positive societal impact, build trust, and secure their long-term
viability in a business landscape that increasingly values ethical and responsible practices.
BRAC Bank's CSR Initiatives: CSR initiatives can evolve over time, and companies like BRAC
Bank may adapt their strategies to address the changing needs and challenges of society. To get
the most up-to-date information on BRAC Bank's current CSR initiatives, I recommend visiting
their official website or reviewing their annual CSR reports and publications. These sources will
provide a comprehensive view of their ongoing efforts and partnerships in the realm of corporate
social responsibility.
The examination of BRAC Bank's CSR initiatives is essential for understanding the role and
impact of CSR in the banking industry, especially in a developing country context. This research
has the potential to inform and inspire both local and global discussions on responsible business
practices and their influence on societal well-being and environmental sustainability.
To assess the scope and nature of BRAC Bank's Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)
initiatives, including an examination of their stated goals and initiatives in CSR.
To evaluate the impact and effectiveness of BRAC Bank's CSR programs on the communities
and stakeholders they are designed to benefit, with a focus on measurable outcomes and
qualitative aspects.
To analyze the alignment of BRAC Bank's CSR initiatives with their core business values and
strategies, and whether these initiatives contribute to the bank's reputation and sustainability.
To investigate the challenges and opportunities faced by BRAC Bank in implementing and
managing its CSR initiatives, including any barriers, success stories, and lessons learned.
To compare BRAC Bank's CSR practices with industry standards and best practices in the field
of corporate social responsibility.
To offer recommendations for potential improvements in BRAC Bank's CSR strategies and
initiatives, based on the findings of the research, to enhance their social and environmental
impact.
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is vital for strategic management as it aligns a company's
operations with ethical, social, and environmental considerations, offering strategic advantages.
It enhances reputation and brand image, fostering trust and loyalty among stakeholders. CSR
promotes meaningful engagement with customers, employees, investors, and communities,
informing strategic decisions. By addressing risks related to environmental, social, and
governance factors, it prevents potential financial and reputational harm. CSR ensures long-term
sustainability, driving innovation, and efficiency gains. Regulatory compliance is met, attracting
talent and investors who value responsible practices, resulting in access to capital. Ultimately,
CSR provides a competitive edge and demonstrates a commitment to societal interests, making it
integral to strategic management.
Researching BRAC Bank's CSR is essential for understanding the bank's impact on society, its
stakeholders, and the environment. The findings can guide the bank in developing a more
effective and responsive CSR strategy, enhancing its reputation, mitigating risks, and
contributing to the betterment of the banking industry by setting an example of responsible and
sustainable business practices.
Strategic management and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) are intricately connected, as
they both influence and complement each other within modern businesses. Strategic management
involves setting and executing long-term organizational objectives, while CSR entails
considering the social and environmental impact of business operation. The method of collecting
data for this paper is the secondary data collection method. BRAC Bank's CSR initiatives are
aligned with its strategic framework, emphasizing properties that are transformational, scalable,
and focused on targeted areas, such as women, minorities, and marginalized groups, within the
sectors of education, health, climate, and sports, music, and literature. The bank's commitment to
CSR reflects its belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to live a meaningful life, and it
actively engages with various stakeholders to achieve these goals. BRAC Bank has made
commendable efforts in its CSR initiatives, particularly in environmental sustainability and
community engagement. However, there is potential for further enhancement in ethical
governance, diversity and inclusion, and stakeholder engagement. These measures will not only
ensure the long-term sustainability of the bank's CSR practices but also increase their positive
impact on both society and the organization's reputation.
2. Literature Review
Strategic management and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) are intricately connected, as
they both influence and complement each other within modern businesses. Strategic management
involves setting and executing long-term organizational objectives, while CSR entails
considering the social and environmental impact of business operations. The integration of CSR
into strategic planning aligns CSR initiatives with the company's broader objectives, enhancing
reputation, mitigating risks, and fostering a competitive advantage. This alignment not only
ensures long-term sustainability but also helps in meeting ethical and regulatory standards and
allows for efficient resource allocation. The relationship between strategic management and CSR
results in more responsible, sustainable, and socially conscious business practices, benefiting
both the company and its stakeholders.
CSR is not just about philanthropy but is an integral part of strategic management. Companies
that strategically integrate CSR into their operations are more likely to experience benefits that
positively impact their market share and competitive position. CSR initiatives can enhance a
company's reputation, differentiate it from competitors, and contribute to long-term
sustainability, all of which can lead to a stronger market presence and competitiveness.
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives play a pivotal role in shaping a company's
reputation and brand image. Sustainability efforts and community involvement, for instance, can
bolster a positive brand image that resonates with consumers seeking socially and
environmentally responsible choices. This positive reputation, in turn, can attract a larger
customer base, ultimately leading to an increase in market share. Additionally, integrating CSR
into strategic management offers a source of differentiation and competitive advantage.
Companies that prioritize CSR not only stand out in the market but also appeal to socially
conscious consumers, potentially capturing a larger market share. Aligning CSR initiatives with
customer values fosters loyalty and retention, a cost-effective means of growing market share.
Moreover, responsible business practices and ethical conduct mitigate regulatory, reputational,
and legal risks, safeguarding a company's market share and competitiveness. The commitment to
CSR can also attract and retain top talent, enhancing innovation, productivity, and overall
competitiveness. Sustainability, as a core tenet of CSR, positions companies for long-term
success, enabling them to grow and maintain market share over time. Further, CSR encourages
resource efficiency, leading to cost savings that enhance a company's competitive edge.
Addressing environmental and social concerns not only satisfies regulatory requirements but also
secures market access and competitiveness. Lastly, effective CSR strategies engage various
stakeholders, from customers and employees to investors and communities, harnessing their
support to strengthen the company's competitive position in the market.
3. Methodology
4.1 Findings:
BRAC Bank devised a strategic framework in 2022 to reflect its belief that everyone
deserves the opportunity to live a meaningful life. BRAC Bank has identified targeted areas
for its CSR initiatives that comply with the policy guidelines on corporate social
responsibility for banks and financial institutions.
OWNABLE: Create transformational and deep-impact properties that are scalable.
EFFECTUAL: To create opportunity, access, advancement and/or meaningful conversation.
TARGETED: Prioritizing (where possible and pragmatic) women, transgender, persons with
disabilities and/or other minority and marginalized groups
FOCUSED: In specific areas within the larger sectors of education, health, climate and
sports, music & literature.
QUANTIFIABLE: With proper and measurable outcomes of efficacy and impact.
Effective stakeholder engagement in CSR is essential for BRAC Bank's success in
addressing social and environmental issues. By involving customers, employees,
communities, and shareholders in its CSR initiatives, the bank can create a positive impact,
enhance its reputation, and contribute to a sustainable and responsible business model.
1. Customers:
Product and Service Development: BRAC Bank can engage with customers in CSR by
designing and offering financial products and services that align with social and
environmental values. For instance, they can provide loans for eco-friendly initiatives or
affordable financial services for underserved communities.
Transparency: The bank can keep customers informed about its CSR activities through
regular communication, reports, and updates. This transparency builds trust and confidence
among customers.
Customer Feedback: Actively seeking customer feedback and input on CSR initiatives can
help tailor programs to better meet the needs and expectations of the customer base. This
could involve surveys, focus groups, or public consultations.
2. Employees:
Volunteer Programs: BRAC Bank can encourage employees to participate in volunteer
programs, allowing them to actively contribute to CSR initiatives. This engagement can
boost employee morale and a sense of purpose.
Training and Awareness: Providing training and raising awareness about CSR and its impact
can make employees more aware of the bank's commitment to social and environmental
issues.
Employee Input: Involving employees in the decision-making process for CSR initiatives
can make them feel more engaged and valued. They can provide valuable insights into what
projects to support or how to improve existing programs.
3. Communities:
Local Partnerships: Collaborating with local organizations and community groups can help
BRAC Bank identify specific community needs and develop targeted CSR programs. This
approach ensures that CSR efforts directly benefit the communities they serve.
Sustainability Initiatives: Supporting environmental sustainability and responsible business
practices within the communities where the bank operates demonstrates a long-term
commitment to the well-being of these areas.
Education and Awareness: Promoting education and awareness campaigns on various social
issues, such as financial literacy or environmental conservation, can empower and uplift the
communities.
4. Shareholders:
Transparency and Reporting: Shareholders should be kept informed about the bank's CSR
activities through regular reporting. Clear communication about how CSR efforts align with
the bank's long-term strategy can demonstrate their impact on shareholder value.
Engagement with SRI Investors: If BRAC Bank has socially responsible investors (SRI),
engaging with them and incorporating their views can help align CSR initiatives with
shareholder interests.
Return on Investment: Demonstrating the positive returns on investment, both in financial
and social terms, can help shareholders understand the value of CSR efforts in enhancing the
bank's reputation and long-term sustainability.
In 2022, BRAC Bank conceived the third batch of "Uddokta 101," an innovative program
for women entrepreneurs. It is the country's first comprehensive Entrepreneur Accelerator
Program and a flagship project of the bank's women's banking service 'TARA.' In 2022, the
project collaborated with BRAC Business School of BRAC University as its knowledge and
training partner.
The rigorous program aims to help promising female business owners develop their
leadership and entrepreneurial skills, enabling them to maintain and grow their companies.
It will aid emerging female entrepreneurs in their quest for professional achievement. 34
deserving female entrepreneurs were chosen from a sizable pool of applicants for this third
round of the program.
The 13-week training took place in both classroom and outdoor settings to provide practical
experience to create, sustain, and grow the business. Under the guidance of the
knowledgeable faculty of BRAC Business School and senior bankers from BRAC Bank, the
entrepreneurs gained expertise in the areas of business planning, record keeping, accounting
and taxation, compliance, HR management, operations and supply chain management, e-
business, export-import management, and fundamental aspects of business management.
BRAC Bank and BRAC University will conduct four "Uddokta 101" batches with at least
30 women entrepreneurs each year. BRAC University will provide the resources, people,
modules, research, and logistics, while BRAC Bank will cover 80% of the course fee from
its CSR fund.
Supporting the Shitakundo Fire Victims through BRAC Limb and Brace Centre
'Disability and disability inclusion' is the main objective of BRAC Bank's CSR in Health.
On June 04, 2022, a fire and subsequent explosion at a container depot at Shitakundo,
Chattogram, killed at least 47 people and injured more than 450. BRAC was among the
responders to this accident who supported the victims through treatment and counseling.
The BRAC Limb and Brace Centre (BLBC) identified five amputees and two burn victims
who required long-term care and treatment. BRAC Bank provided financial assistance of
BDT 1,103,100 to BLBC for the treatment of these seven identified victims.
In the year 2022, BRAC Bank has spent BDT 188.5 million for its CSR programs which is
3.4% of its profit after tax of 2021 (BDT 5,547 million).
4.2 Analysis:
CSR has a very significant impact of CSR activities on both financial and non-financial aspects
of BRAC Bank. The sustainability of the bank's CSR practices appears to be a mix of strengths
and areas needing improvement. While the bank has made commendable efforts in
environmental sustainability and social impact through community engagement, there is room
for enhancing its ethical and governance practices. Future directions should focus on aligning
CSR initiatives with global environmental commitments, promoting diversity and inclusion, and
strengthening ethical governance. Additionally, improving stakeholder engagement mechanisms
and reporting transparency will enhance the overall effectiveness of the bank's CSR efforts.
These measures will help ensure the long-term sustainability of the bank's CSR practices while
increasing their positive impact on both society and the organization's reputation. Corporate
Social Responsibility (CSR) activities are crucial for understanding a company's commitment to
sustainability and its impact on financial performance. Let's break down some key quantitative
data points and performance indicators related to CSR activities:
1. Total CSR Spending: This figure represents the total financial resources allocated by a
company for CSR initiatives. It may include monetary donations, employee volunteer
hours, and in-kind contributions.
2. Impact Metrics: Impact metrics assess the effectiveness of CSR activities. Common
metrics include a. Number of beneficiaries: Measuring the direct recipients of CSR
programs, such as the number of people who received healthcare or education services. b.
Reduced carbon emissions: Quantifying the company's efforts to reduce its carbon
footprint through initiatives like renewable energy adoption or waste reduction. c.
Education outcomes: Measuring improvements in literacy rates, school attendance, or
educational attainment resulting from CSR activities.
7. Benchmarking: Compare the company's CSR performance against industry peers and
best practices. Benchmarking provides context for evaluating the effectiveness of CSR
efforts.
9. CSR Reporting Frequency: Evaluate how often the company reports on its CSR activities
and whether it provides real-time or annual data. Regular reporting demonstrates a
commitment to transparency.
10. Regulatory Compliance: Ensure that the company complies with relevant CSR
regulations and guidelines, which may vary by region or industry.
Future directions should focus on aligning CSR initiatives with global environmental
commitments, promoting diversity and inclusion, and strengthening ethical governance.
Additionally, improving stakeholder engagement mechanisms and reporting transparency will
enhance the overall effectiveness of the bank's CSR efforts. These measures will help ensure the
long-term sustainability of the bank's CSR practices while increasing their positive impact on
both society and the organization's reputation.
5. Recommendation and Conclusion
5.1 Recommendation
Based on the analysis of BRAC Bank's CSR practices and the identified areas for improvement,
here are actionable recommendations to enhance its CSR initiatives and ensure long-term
sustainability:
6. Measure Long-Term and Short-Term Impact: Clearly define and monitor short-term and
long-term goals for CSR initiatives and communicate the timeframes to stakeholders.
10. Ensure Regulatory Compliance: Stay updated on CSR regulations and collaborate with
legal and compliance teams for proactive compliance.
Implementing these recommendations will help BRAC Bank enhance the effectiveness and long-
term sustainability of its CSR practices while positively impacting both society and the bank's
reputation. It is crucial for the bank to integrate CSR into its core business strategy and
continuously assess and adapt its CSR initiatives to meet evolving social and environmental
challenges.
5.2 Conclusion:
BRAC Bank's CSR practices are commendable, reflecting a commitment to social and
environmental responsibility. The bank's efforts have made a positive impact on the community,
and stakeholders generally view these initiatives favorably. The bank's commitment to
sustainability aligns with its mission and values. To enhance its CSR performance further, BRAC
Bank should focus on continuous monitoring, address ethical dilemmas, and transparently
communicate its achievements. Overall, BRAC Bank's CSR practices contribute positively to its
brand image, stakeholder relationships, and the well-being of the community.
Reference:
Nayeem, F.B., 2018. Customer relationship officer’s engagement in learning & development
department of BRAC Bank Limited.
Siza, L.S.S., 2013. An assessment of management trainee officer at BRAC Bank Limited.