The climate emergency and social inequality are profound and pressing problems, thrown into sharp relief by the COVID crisis, that can only be solved if we harness the enormous potential of entrepreneurs, innovation and enterprise.
The world needs business at its best – creating good jobs, helping to fix pressing problems and adding value to society. But at precisely this point in history, trust in business is low and examples abound of poor governance leading not just to poor business outcomes but harmful damage to communities and the environment. We don’t need to accept these outcomes as inevitable, but rather strive to do better in our boardrooms. Voters, consumers and investors expect this now. Research shows that UK voters and consumers want business to do better. Three quarters of the UK public think business has a responsibility to protect the environment and the majority favour brands that do good in the world.
What do we mean by better? This means freeing decision-makers in business to act in everyone’s long term interests – combining traditions of good stewardship and responsibility with new ideas to meet the challenges of the 21st century. There is evidence that business in the UK has taken the lead in reforming its practices around purpose, but we need the statutes and policies to ensure these become the norm. Specifically, this means putting purpose at the heart of company law and the fiduciary responsibility of directors.
A small change in the law will make a big change in the world. It will allow businesses to make decisions in all of our long term interests, helping to create a fairer, greener future.
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This event will take place online only. The University is currently restricting events on campus to help control the spread of the transmission and we must continue to play our role in reducing the spread of the virus. We hope to be back to in person events for the Autumn series, thank you for your understanding.
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Virtual Bristol Distinguished Address Series with Grant Mansfield
6.30pm
-7.30pm
Online
Q&A
This event is part of the Bristol Distinguished Address Series (BDAS). BDAS provides an opportunity to hear unique perspectives and insights from change makers, activists, entrepreneurs and people who have achieved amazing things in Bristol and beyond.
The Plimsoll Story – Carol Vorderman in Conversation with Grant Mansfield, Founder and CEO, Plimsoll Productions and Julian Bellamy, Managing Director, ITV Studios.
Filmmakers’ Shindig with Marc Jobst
6pm
-10pm
The Architect, 16 Narrow Quay, Bristol, BS1 4QA
Talk
Probably the most inspiring little film night in the world. Join us in Bristol for an evening of learning, stimulation, collaboration, entertainment and general filmmaking joy!
Wake Up Call: How to rethink the ‘office’ to promote team wellbeing and productivity
8.30am
-9am
Online
BCI Webinar
Tom Vaughton, Founder of Varn, a Search & Digital Marketing agency, shares his ideas of how to rethink the traditional office and workspace to promote team wellbeing & productivity. Tom has recently launched the first ‘outdoor woodland office’ for the Varn team. Register to listen in on Friday 2nd June!