A Seat at the Table

The appointment of Greenpeace chief Jennifer Morgan as Germany’s special climate envoy has hit the headlines for its potential to blur the lines between activism and State positions.

This action is something repeated in boardrooms all over the world, not always successfully. Diversity can be a shock to the system. Integration of new talent can be a personal and professional challenge. 

But representation is key to success. This has been proven by studies showing a higher return on equity in companies with strong female leadership. The FTSE 100 now has 40% of women on their boards.

This could be the time to reflect on who else belongs on boards. 

Activists, youth representatives, scientists or employees, external ‘specialists’ provide a unique perspective, driven by difference and expertise. A recent campaign by B Lab UK encouraged boards to prepare for 2030 - just two board terms away - and reflect on who needs to join your board to ensure business success.   

The rise in Chief Sustainability Officers not only recognises the importance of ESG but also the interconnectedness of strategy and sustainability.  Decisions today reverberate throughout companies and having a broader spectrum of insight enables better decision making.  

Appointing diverse experts to our boards creates resilient future strategies built on considered insights. Who do you need to talk to?