Making an impact? Let's discuss ...

Today, we have published our 2021 Impact Report .

In essence, the report showcases examples of how, as a business, we have made an impact that matters on our people, our clients, our communities and on our planet.

Our intention is that this report is more than something to be read and filed away. It is hugely important that it is discussed, and is, in fact, one of the important ways we have a conversation with our stakeholders on what we have achieved over the last year.

A conversation with our people on how we are supporting them in their development and making sure they are clear on how the work they do is meaningful. That they understand what they do on a daily basis contributes to the overall impact we are having as a business. And that this contribution is recognised and appreciated.

A conversation with our clients on how we are working with them on the important issues facing their businesses. That we are, in turn, helping them have a meaningful impact for their stakeholders.

And a conversation with all of our stakeholders that we are operating as a responsible business - looking beyond profit to our purpose.?

Ultimately, it is our way of illustrating and assessing our commitment to doing the right thing.?

Over the course of the last year, we emphasised our people-first approach by supporting the physical and emotional well-being of our professionals. We applied our problem-solving expertise to deliver solutions and support to clients and communities hit hard by the pandemic. And together we doubled down on our commitment to lead the way on the biggest challenges of our time. ?I was particularly struck by how our people reached out to colleagues and friends in India during the pandemic, despite our own circumstances at that time.?How they found the time, space and resources to support organisations that were deeply affected by the pandemic – with reduced funding and increased demand.?How they applied their practical thinking to ensure we were responsible towards our climate obligations and supported those who needed basic technology resources.

Last year our people mobilised virtually, providing considerable moral and financial support to the Focus Ireland Shine A Light Campaign.??This year , with an easing of restrictions, I am delighted that I will be joined by a much larger group of colleagues – giving a voice to our people on a topic that is important to them – housing and homelessness.?This commitment to not just get involved but to be part of the discussion as we seek to find solutions to some of our society’s most complex issues continues to inspire me.?

Our Impact Report seeks to encourage a discussion on what really matters to all of us; it seeks to highlight where we are aligning our values and purpose with our work.?It seeks to help develop what we do well and help identify where we can do more.?It’s a really important discussion and one we will continue to return to.

#impactthatmatters #shinealight