BrazilSparkOptimus reinforces purpose-driven focus with B Corp status
Dutch management consultancy firm SparkOptimus has achieved its certification as a B Corporation (B Corp).
The co-founder of SparkOptimus, Alexandra Jankovich, said that while the achievement marks a major milestone for the Amsterdam-based firm, it is also a testament to the company’s ongoing dedication to integrating sustainable practices into every aspect of its business operations.
“At SparkOptimus, we’ve always been committed to sustainability and social responsibility. Achieving B Corp certification is a great recognition of our long-standing intentions and commitment to our values.”
Becoming a B Corp requires companies to pass a rigorous test that ensures strategy and business operations are aligned to the highest ESG standards. Companies also need to have a stated purpose mission. Notably, SparkOptimus scored 84.9 points on the B Corp index – the median score for businesses who complete the assessment is currently 50.9.
Jankovich said that the score reflects the firm’s deeply engrained dedication to ESG-driven policies. “We actively champion diversity, equity, and inclusion – for example, nearly half of our team, including senior management, is composed of women. We minimize our own environmental impact through decarbonization initiatives and offsetting efforts. Additionally, we support non-profits and communities with pro bono work, a recent example being RefugeeHelp.com.”
“Furthermore, we continuously invest in the well-being and professional development of our people, extending beyond regular sustainability and DE&I trainings, a comprehensive code of ethics, and a strong focus on employee well-being through for example unlimited access to mental health consultations.”
Internal and external
Jankovich said that the firm’s dedication to ESG also extends into its client work. “Our dedication to ESG is also reflected in our holistic approach to business transformation, where we prioritize solutions that are not only innovative but also sustainable and equitable. We go beyond just developing these solutions – we empower our clients on their sustainability journeys through our digital, data & artificial intelligence expertise.”
One recent example is the firm’s collaboration with Henkel Consumer Goods. “We’re excited to be their partner on their sustainability transformation,” stated Jankovich.
During the collaboration, SparkOptimus helped Henkel with the global roll-out of sustainable home care products, providing actionable steps to position the German company as industry leaders and influence consumer behavior positively towards sustainable choices. “This aligns perfectly with both Henkel’s goals and our own commitment to making sustainable practices the new norm.”
Since its inception in 2010, SparkOptimus has helped over 350 clients deliver over 1,000 projects in 20+ countries. Jankovich noted that sustainability and ESG related work is now the firm’s fastest growing service line.
Driving positive impact
Now part of a group of 8,000 B Corps that are similarly committed to purpose, Jankovich said that SparkOptimus will up its efforts to ignite change for the better. “We see our B Corp certification not just as an emblem of our achievements; it is a call to action – a reminder that our work is far from done, and our mission is more relevant than ever.”
“We will reinforce our dedication to not only leading by example but also ensuring that our collective journey towards sustainability is inclusive, informed, and impactful. Together, with our clients, partners, and the broader community, we are committed to creating a future where every business decision is made with consideration for its lasting impact on the world.”
Tessa van Soest, Director of B Lab in the Benelux, describes the arrival of SparkOptimus in the B Corp community as “hugely exciting”. She stated: “Their commitment to doing business differently will be an inspiration to others and really help spread the idea that we can redefine success in business to be as much about people and planet as it is about profit.”
