A Night of Leadership and Action: Reflections from the 2025 Leadership Assembly

Kieran Harding, Acting Chief Executive at Business in the Community, reflects on our annual Leadership Assembly that took place on July 9th at Mansion House, London.

Early last month, we gathered for the Leadership Assembly. It was an evening that reminded us of the power and potential of responsible business in shaping a better future for all. It was an inspiring event, not just for the ideas shared, but for the energy and commitment in the room. 

What is the State of the Nation for responsible business?

The Assembly, attended by more than 100 senior leaders from businesses across the UK, provided a significant platform to launch our State of the Nation 2025 research and report. This work was kindly sponsored by Schroders and supported by Hogan Lovells. The report highlighted findings from business leaders in relation to responsible business. They shared that:

Our State of the Nation research shows just how far we’ve come and how far we still need to go. Business leaders are steadfast in their commitment to responsible business (96%), however, they are being less vocal about it and are even adopting a risk-averse approach to it due to the current economic and political environment. But the work is far from over. We need bold and collaborative action, which includes government and community leaders – essential partners to address deeply rooted issues and achieve significant impacts at scale. 

Highlights from our unique leadership programme – The King’s Seeing is Believing 

The Assembly also provided an opportunity to share highlights from The King’s Seeing is Believing initiative, a unique programme of visits that has been bringing together CEOs and senior business leaders in small groups to re-connect with communities across the UK and enabling those leaders to experience societal issues at a grassroots level. The programme, supported by Linklaters and Salesforce, exemplifies what it means to be purpose-driven. Over the last year, more than 200 senior leaders participated in 12 visits across the UK, with 80+ percent taking direct action following their experiences. Collectively, they met with more than 300 community leaders, people with lived experience of the issues and other local stakeholders.  

By way of just one example, I was encouraged to hear about the Seeing is Believing visit in Brent, work that is being bolstered by our partnership with the Youth Futures Foundation. Our Talent Unlocked three-year partnership is empowering employers to tap into the potential of young professionals aged 16-24 from Black, Asian, Mixed, and other ethnically diverse backgrounds; breaking down barriers and enabling individuals to enter sustainable employment. 

The economy and responsible business 

The evening was more than a celebration; it was a showcase of responsible business in action, a powerful reminder of who we are at Business in the Community. A unique network of leaders, passionate and committed to tackling some of the most complex challenges facing business and society today. 

The conversations and feedback shared during the Assembly reminded me that business and society are deeply interconnected. So whilst  economic growth is the number one objective for leaders across the UK, there is a recognition that there is more to do to ensure that the growth is truly inclusive.  

Three things your business can do 

As we reflect on what we heard during the Assembly and what we’ve learned over many years, BITC is making three clear asks of business leaders – actions aligned with the needs emerging in our communities today: 

Make responsible business the foundation of economic growth

Responsible business isn’t a ‘one-time’ thing. It’s an ‘every time’ thing. It’s not about one initiative, one act of kindness, or a single annual sustainability report. It’s a mindset – a commitment that must run through everything we do. Whether it’s about attracting talent, retaining customers, supporting the environment, or helping lift up challenged communities, responsibility must be embedded in the DNA of every organisation.

Bridge the gap between commitment and community need

We need business leaders to go beyond pledges and truly engage with local communities. As we’ve heard through The King’s Seeing is Believing programme and our Pride of Place partnerships, impactful action starts with deep understanding. We’re calling on you to connect directly with civic and community leaders. Join us on visits. Be present. Listen, and together, we can develop solutions that bring meaningful, measurable change.

Collaborate to create lasting impact

No single business can solve systemic issues alone. The most powerful change happens when organisations work together – across sectors, industries, and regions. We’ve seen how collaboration can move the dial on issues like race inequality in the workplace, inclusive employment, and crisis response. But we must go further. We need stronger partnerships – not only with each other, but with the Government.

The Government as a key partner in driving change 

The evolving role of business in society cannot be ignored. We ask for the Government’s recognition and support of the business community’s unique ability to drive inclusive economic growth. We’re ready to partner. Let’s ensure that the contribution of responsible business is not taken for granted. 

As we continue this journey, BITC will not shy away from challenging business to go further. We will inspire, support and push our network to be bolder and braver – to co-create solutions to the big issues that hold back progress for people, communities and the planet. 

Let’s keep the momentum going and continue to connect, collaborate and lead with purpose. Together, we can ensure that responsible business drives economic growth and prosperity – for all. 

Kieran Harding

Acting Chief Executive, Business in the Community