How Can Companies and Investors Collaborate to Embed Purpose Authentically Into Business?
Business does not operate in a vacuum. The health of the communities in which business operates is inherently connected to the health of business itself. And vice versa, the health of business impacts the health of communities. The combination of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the global reaction to the murder of George Floyd are two huge social issues…affecting everyone, including business. And yet business can and should also be part of the solution.
How businesses engage with social issues is more important than ever. Businesses sharing nice words without action to back them up are being publicly called out. Businesses that are able to demonstrate their authentic social purpose are winning fans, with employees, consumers and shareholders.
After a year of research asking whether business can have “purpose”, deliver “sustainability” and be “a force for good”- this online discussion brings together experts, practitioners and invites everyone to share their insights on the following key questions:
- What examples are there of businesses delivering authentic sustainable purpose beyond the usual suspects? What are the key factors that define authentic business purpose?
- Our research 1 suggests that investors are an under-utilised and often overlooked source of expertise and support for companies who are serious about embedding purpose. What are the ways that investors and other stakeholders can influence how a business behaves and performs?
- What are your best examples of how companies and investors collaborate to embed purpose authentically into business? Our research suggests that there could be three areas in which collaboration between investors and companies would be particularly fruitful: Materiality, Leadership, and Impact – what could this mean in reality?
Format:
This is a text-based discussion. There will be no video or audio. Please post your comments below. After the live session, this discussion will remain open, so please do continue to share your insights. To receive a free summary of this discussion afterwards, register here 3
How to participate:
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Time: 11 AM – 12 PM BST / 6 AM – 7 AM ET
Location: Virtual
Date: Thursday, June 18, 2020
