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A Call for Global Boardroom Leadership
An emphasis on Global Workplace Dynamics and Global Talent Access
The Institute of Directors (IOD), India, hosted the 2024 London Global Convention on Corporate Governance and Sustainability from November 13–16, 2024. It convened global experts to deliberate on interconnected global risks and opportunities arising from corporate operations, the aspirations of a growing human population, and the changing dynamics of sustainability. The discussions underscored that while these challenges pose existential threats, they also present unparalleled opportunities for responsible leadership, innovation, and entrepreneurship.
Boards worldwide are now called to rethink and redesign their strategies, embracing circular economy principles where outputs of one process can become valuable inputs for another. The message was clear: sustainable and inclusive growth is no longer optional it is the mandate for responsible companies and forward-thinking leaders.
The G20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro (November 18-19, 2024) further amplified the need for corporate alignment with global priorities. Under the motto “Building a Just World and a Sustainable Planet,” G20 leaders placed inequality and sustainability at the center of their agenda. With a cautiously optimistic outlook for a soft landing of the global economy, the Summit called for greater transparency in credit ratings and country risk assessments, which could shape how boards approach financial and strategic decisions in the coming years.
Meanwhile, the outcomes of COP29 in Baku reflected mixed progress. While developing nations, including India, sought stronger commitments to address their dual challenges of climate action and economic growth, the outcomes fell short of expectations. Corporate boards, particularly in emerging markets, must now take proactive steps to navigate these gaps by championing green innovation and aligning business goals with ESG principles.
The December edition of 'Director Today' is a Special Edition dedicated to exploring the dynamic landscape of employee engagement, workforce trends, and organisational culture. As organisations navigate an era of rapid change, workforce culture continues to evolve, shaped by the forces of digital transformation, globalization, generational shifts, and the enduring impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Hybrid work models have redefined workplace dynamics, creating opportunities for flexibility, global talent access, and work-life balance while also raising challenges around job security, inclusivity, and collaboration.
Disruptive technologies like automation, artificial intelligence, and cloud-based platforms have become integral, shifting job roles and requiring reskilling initiatives. For boards, these trends underline the importance of fostering an adaptable and resilient workforce culture that champions Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DE&I) as key drivers of innovation and reputation.
Forward-looking organisations are prioritising holistic employee well-being, mental health support, and sustainable business practices. Boards must recognize that a strong organisational culture aligned with ESG priorities is no longer a differentiator but a necessity for global competitiveness.
The IOD's upcoming International Conference on CSR in Mumbai, February 2025, will integrate insights from the London Global Convention, evolving workforce culture, and the role of social markets. It will provide a platform for stakeholders to explore the synergies between CSR and workforce evolution, underscoring the role of responsible business in addressing societal challenges.
IOD invites all its stakeholders to join this critical dialogue and continue shaping the narrative of sustainable, inclusive growth.
As 2024 draws to a close, we extend our heartfelt wishes to all the IOD members and readers for a prosperous New Year ahead.
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Pradeep Chaturvedi
Vice President - Institute of Directors
He is former Advisor FAO & former Chairman, Institution of Engineers, Delhi. He is a Mechanical Engineer & has been involved with Environment & Energy Policy (planning & implementation) of energy projects under the UN Agencies for over three decades in India & other Asian and Pacific countries. He is Vice-President, World Environment Foundation & Institute of Directors, India.
Owned by: Institute of Directors, India
Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in the articles/ stories are the personal opinions of the author. IOD/ Editor is not responsible for the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information in those articles. The information, facts or opinions expressed in the articles/ speeches do not reflect the views of IOD/ Editor and IOD/ Editor does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same.
