Corporate social responsibility embeddedness through a social network analysis: The case of an Italian multiutility company

To gain substantial benefits, corporate social responsibility (CSR) needs to be embedded within an organization. Through a social network analysis, this study analyzes to what extent an Italian multiutility company, strategically committed to sustainability, integrates social and environmental issues in its strategy, operations, and routines. The paper aims to answer the following two questions: (a) How can an investigation of the level of information exchange help in identifying whether CSR is embedded or peripheral in a company?; (b) how can an investigation of the role of the CSR department help in identifying whether CSR is embedded or peripheral in a company? The study reveals the frequency and density of information exchange regarding social and environmental issues among 67 business units as well as highlighting the real role played by the CSR department. This research contributes to the current debate on CSR embeddedness by showing how an exploration of internal social networks reveals the extent to which CSR is integrated within strategy, operations, and routines. It also provides useful suggestions for managers on ways to improve the level of integration.