Upwork Inc

Upwork discloses a structured alignment process whereby "the ESG Program Office works very closely with Upwork's Global Public Policy team to ensure alignment between Upwork's ESG and public advocacy strategy," with the "VP of Global Public Policy" sitting on the ESG Task Force and the Public Policy team reporting to the Chief of Business Affairs and Legal Officer. Under this arrangement, "any public statements, funding, or actions to support public policy that knowingly affects climate change policy or legislation is discussed in ESG Task Force meetings at least on a biannual basis," indicating that direct lobbying activities undergo periodic review. However, the company does not disclose similar mechanisms for managing indirect lobbying through trade associations or industry groups, and we found no evidence of any review of third-party or association positions. Moreover, Upwork has no "public commitment or position statement to conduct your engagement activities in line with the goals of the Paris Agreement," noting "No, and we do not plan to have one in the next two years." While clear ownership and regular climate-lobbying review are present, the absence of coverage for indirect advocacy and a formal public alignment commitment limits the comprehensiveness of its governance process.