A parable that contrasts the leadership styles of two CEOs:  one operating in the old business paradigm; the other embracing the new business paradigm, in which success is inextricably tied to the success of business stakeholders.  It is based on a new, proactive business model that works better in the 21st century than the old-world, protectionist, risk management formula, because it turns business networks into aligned and consensual communities that get things done faster and better.  It balances traditional defensive, risk management practices with new, offensive, Trust Enablement approaches to business.

As a company committed to sustainable development, Anglo American believes that while its operations may deplete a natural resource in a particular location, it should deliver a combination of improvements in the social and human capacities of the communities around them. A growing number of key stakeholders share this expectation. The attached two-page pdf document (which can be downloaded by clicking on the 'download' link) describes a case study of how Anglo American used the tool at a colliery in South Africa. It briefly summarises the challenge the company faced, and its response.  You can also read an overview/summary of the overall SEAT approach here.

Boards are operating in ever more complex and challenging business environments. At the same time, their behaviour and standards are coming under increasing external scrutiny, for example through the Financial Reporting Council (FRC) and Walker Reviews in the UK. This publication champions the concept of a ‘mandate’ which sets out the ‘essence’ of the ‘character’ and distinctiveness of the company. We believe that this ‘working charter’ can help boards navigate their way through increasingly choppy waters by facilitating more effective strategic engagement: primarily between executive directors and NEDs to improve board effectiveness, but with the associated benefit that it drives communication externally with the key stakeholders, including investors, government and regulators, and society at large. Accompanying this document is a 'tool-kit' which provides an agenda for board discussions. Please download this here.  A series of case studies illustrating how the board mandate may,...

This Briefing Document, by Tomorrow’s Company, summarises how Interface seeks to inspire and engage people towards the goal of sustainability. The social strategy of Interface is to continually increase the socio-economic value it creates for all its stakeholders.This briefing document is written drawing on internal Interface briefing documents and materials made available through the Tomorrow’s Company membership relationship with Interface. We are sharing this information with a wider audience for interest and inspiration, given the leading work Interface is doing in the area of sustainability.You can find the full list of Briefing Documents on forceforgood.com here.