Business Pledge Update – August 2019
Business Pledge Refresh
Following a review, we are refreshing the Business Pledge with the aim of making it more dynamic and impactful. Key changes include new elements and structure of the Business Pledge. From October, the reinvigorated Business Pledge will feature three mandatory elements:
In addition, through a new menu approach, businesses will be able to commit to achieving any 5 of the following 7 elements:
Business Leadership Group – Chair appointed
As part of the refreshed Business Pledge, a Business Leadership Group will be established to help drive awareness and promotion. This group will play an integral role in developing a programme of learning opportunities which will build capacity around all of the Business Pledge elements, supporting both existing and prospective signatories to make their commitment.
We are delighted to announce that Caroline Colliston has been appointed as Chair. Caroline, who is a Partner at DWF LLP, has a background in providing specialist corporate and personal tax planning advice, and brings a wealth of experience across a diverse range of topics. Caroline currently sits on the DWF Diversity Steering Group, International CSR Leadership Group, and is also a Member of Business in the Community Scotland’s Advisory Board.
In her role as Chair, Caroline will help to identify Members with expertise across various sectors and locations to ensure that business is firmly in the driving seat. Further announcements and updates will be made shortly.
650th Business Pledge
Stirling-based personalised jewellery specialists Lily Blanche recently hosted Jamie Hepburn, Minister for Business, Fair Work and Skills as they were announced as the 650th business to join the Scottish Business Pledge.
Welcoming the news, Business Minister Jamie Hepburn said: “I am delighted to announce Lily Blanche as the 650th business to make a commitment to the Scottish Business Pledge. Scotland relies on progressive, sustainable businesses built on strong core values. As a female led business, actively contributing to the Women’s Enterprise Framework, Lily Blanche are a shining example to many female entrepreneurs.”
Gillian Crawford, Director, who is a Women’s Enterprise Scotland Ambassador and chair of the British Association of Women Entrepreneurs, said:
We are thrilled to be the 650th signatory to the Scottish Business Pledge. Our highly talented, multi-lingual team at Lily Blanche have been driving the growth of our ecommerce business. In common with many women’s businesses, social purpose and fair work are at the centre of our strategy and doing business in an ethical manner is important to us and to our customers.
Business Breakfast
First in a series of ‘business breakfast’ events, join us for an update from the Scottish Government on the refreshed Business Pledge including the new mandatory elements. Guests will hear real insights from businesses on action to address the gender pay gap and have the opportunity to network and participate in a Q&A with business leaders.
When: Monday 2 September – 8.30am registration, event 9am-10.30am.
Where: KPMG, Saltire Court, 20 Castle Terrace, Edinburgh, EH1 2EG.
RSVP: Please e-mail daniel.paterson@gov.scot to confirm your attendance.