CIPD viewpoint
Explore the CIPD's collected perspective on the key issues impacting work, including recommendations, supporting evidence and links to resources for policymakers and employers
Explore the CIPD’s point of view on responsible business, including actions for Government and recommendations for employers
Work can and should be a force for good, and the drive towards responsible and sustainable business begins with people. HR leaders should use their influence to build fairer, more human-centric work within their organisations.
Responsible business has been steadily climbing up the agenda, driven by growing investor and regulatory interest in environmental, social and governance (ESG) matters, and an organisational focus on values and purpose. Employers are increasingly recognising that they need to operate ethically and responsibly, to meet the expectations of both their workforce and their customers and to manage reputational risks. To do this, they need to build fair, compassionate and inclusive workplaces, and to play closer attention to their role in communities and society. Leaders and investors are increasingly focused on employee matters as part of a responsible business agenda.
Research has shown that those organisations that had human leadership and trust built into their organisations, were those that survived through the COVID-19 crisis the most effectively.
People issues are business issues. Items that might once have been low priority or an afterthought, such as culture, employee wellbeing, diversity and inclusion and engagement, are leadership and board priorities.
We need a shift in business practices to ensure work is a force for good. The post-pandemic recovery presents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to build a fairer, more human-centric world of work. HR leaders have a vital role to play in leading, building, managing and governing responsible businesses – we must not snap back or maintain outdated working practices.
An organisation’s people are a key part of the 'S' in ESG. All of the key challenges facing boardrooms and leadership teams today require a deep understanding of the people aspects of business.
The people profession stepped up to the plate during the pandemic. Now we must maintain and cement its well-earned place at the top of the organisation.
Key to achieving this, is improving the quality of external reporting on human capital management information which can ensure there is wider understanding of the value of investing in the workforce to underpin responsible business practice and sustainable performance.
We’re gathering evidence about how to put ideas about responsible business into practice. We want to hear from leaders about: the implications of the pandemic on responsible business, how we put ideas about responsible business into practice, and the implications for developing responsible leaders. Please email Scarlett Brown to get involved.
Explore the CIPD's collected perspective on the key issues impacting work, including recommendations, supporting evidence and links to resources for policymakers and employers
Information to help your organisation operate in a sustainable, accountable and transparent way
Engaging with ministers, other policy makers and our membership to inform our views to influence government