Boyden Report Series

As social impact organisations stir our conscience, where does your organisation stand?

Social Impact Report: Analysing the trends and companies reshaping the role of enterprise in society, with expert insights from Boyden's Global Social Impact Practice Members

Social Impact organisations remodel leadership and the role of enterprise

Social enterprises today are a major force in reshaping leadership at government level, through policy and legislation; at organisational level, through ESG goals and brand positioning; and at team level, through authentic and empathetic leadership. The impact of these organisations is accelerating as the role of enterprise in society undergoes radical change.

In turn, we see the rise of the ‘socially conscious leader,’ driving coherence across a diverse workforce addressing some of the world’s most challenging social and environmental issues. The focus on people - employees, consumers and other stakeholders – and sustainability, ESG goals and the circular economy has sharpened the focus on ‘purpose-led’ organisations, because, as one commentator says, “If you think people and planet come second to profit, you have a year to save your organisation”.

The shifting landscape: towards a ‘social value economy’

"The modern economy and traditional corporate structures have, until recently, been designed to ‘do well’ but not necessarily to ‘do good.’ That’s changing. Organizations are maturing and increasingly view their role, at least in part, as an active ingredient for repairing our world. Through our counsel with leading organizations and our commitment to multiple ‘bottom lines,’ we’re proud to be part of this essential and positive shift."

Kathryn Young
Managing Partner, Canada

 

"Social impact organizations demand an inclusive, holistic style of leadership. Their leaders have learned to master the complex balance between financial returns and social and environmental benefits. These leaders go beyond simply sparking change; they serve as role models for the broader economy, which is undergoing a profound shift toward a value-based model that creates benefits not only for shareholders, but also for customers, employees, society, and the environment as a whole."

Christian Watts
Managing Partner, Switzerland

 


 

The need for social value drives convergence

 

“There is a convergence happening: top-performing enterprises in both the not-for-profit and for-profit sectors have much to learn from each other’s best practices. Supporters of not-for-profits increasingly expect more commercial discipline in decision-making and resource deployment. Meanwhile, for-profit stakeholders are calling for a balance that integrates traditional performance metrics with investments that benefit society at large. For both sectors, this convergence points to a balanced, sustainable approach to advancing all enterprises.”

Craig Stevens
Managing Partner, United States 

 


 

ESG backlash and a new path to sustainability

 

"We can no longer do business as we once did. The shift toward a social value economy acknowledges that long-term success depends not only on profit but also on societal well-being and environmental impact. This movement, from the early ideas of ‘People, Planet, Profit’ to today’s focus on social value, reflects a deeper understanding of how organizations impact the world. Emerging markets, where companies often fill institutional gaps left by governments, hold immense potential for those who embrace this shift. Organizations that proactively integrate social, environmental, and ethical standards are better positioned to navigate global complexities and achieve sustainable growth, building resilience as they balance purpose with profit."

Farah Esmail
Partner, East Africa

 

1 According to UK Government Public Spending Statistics
2 and 3 Statista

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