Susan Fakharzadeh

Panelist Profile

Session: Tools for Success: Leveraging DEI to Meet Evolving ESG Expectations
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Diversity, equity, and inclusion is often viewed – and rightly so – as the pillar of the “social” framework of ESG.  However, inclusion and belonging as a cultural value can reap benefits far beyond just the “S” of ESG and can be a means of integrating and bridging the company efforts across the environmental and governance pillars as well.  By using the right data and message, clear and measurable strategies in DEI can unify and ground your company culture within your underlying mission and purpose.  This panel will explore the role of DEI within ESG from several perspectives, including the strategic importance within the investor community, the processes for establishing meaningful metrics, and the critical role of leadership in communicating and relating these principles to core values and business outcomes.

Senior Executive,
​ESG & Government Affairs

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About Susan Fakharzadeh

Susan Fakharzadeh has worked in oil and gas basins across North America for over 12 years, focusing on policy development, stakeholder engagement, and reputation management, with most of her recent efforts focused on the challenging and rewarding DJ Basin of Colorado. Most recently, Susan served as the Senior Vice President, Sustainability and Government Affairs for Great Western Petroleum, overseeing the company’s regulatory, compliance, environmental, and communications strategy, including the environmental, social and governance (ESG) programs and standards until the acquisition by PDC Energy in May 2022.
 
An influential leader in the community, Ms. Fakharzadeh has spearheaded critical programs and worked shoulder to shoulder with elected officials and local governments on decisions essential to Colorado’s dynamic oil and gas economy. Additionally, her work has been recognized for the development of best-in-class community investment and outreach programs, tailored to answer critical needs and services through meaningful partnerships with non-profits and other community organizations.
 
In 2017, she was recognized by the Denver Business Journal as one of Denver’s Top 40 Women in Energy; in 2018, she was recognized by the Colorado Women’s Chamber as one of Colorado’s Top 25 Most Powerful Women. She is proud to support many civic and community organizations in leadership roles and has served as co-chair of the Adams County Regional Economic Partnership executive committee and as a long-term member of the board of directors for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Weld County.
Prior to joining Great Western in 2018, Ms. Fakharzadeh worked at PDC Energy and Western Energy Alliance. She attended the University of Colorado at Boulder where she earned a bachelor’s degree in English and Philosophy.