The Impact of ESG Management on Business Performance: Focusing on J College

Purpose: This study aims to explore key factors influencing the management performance of educational institutions through ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) management, focusing on J College. Research design, data, and methodology: A research model was developed with environment, society, and governance as independent variables, and trust and reputation as mediators affecting management performance. Data were collected from students and faculty of J College through a convenience sampling method, and analyzed using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM). Results: The analysis revealed that all three ESG dimensions—environment, society, and governance—had a significant positive effect on both trust and reputation. Furthermore, trust and reputation were also found to have a significant positive impact on the perceived management performance of the institution. Despite some fit indices such as RMSEA (0.297) indicating sub- optimal model fit, this is attributable to the low degrees of freedom (df=4) and limited sample size, which can distort these indices. Therefore, model fit was primarily evaluated based on SRMR, CFI, and NFI, which were within acceptable thresholds. Implications: The findings of this study offer meaningful implications for educational institutions implementing ESG initiatives. The validated relationships among ESG dimensions, trust, reputation, and performance suggest that a strategic and integrated ESG approach can enhance stakeholder trust and institutional reputation—key drivers of long-term success and sustainability. These results support the view that ESG management should be positioned as a core strategy for educational institutions seeking to improve their competitiveness and pursue sustainable development in a rapidly evolving educational environment.