On Friday 6 November, the Director of Plan A at Marks and Spencer, Mike Barry, visited Shiplake College in order to give a lecture on business to Sixth Form pupils. Aimed specifically at those pupils studying Design and Technology, pupils from other subjects were welcomed to the talk, which was based around sustainable business. Plan A is a business initiative specifically instigated in order to analyse the sustainability of a business, and how to approach certain issues in business. The scheme aims to create good will in the community: it supports nationwide charities, aiming to improve environmental issues by sourcing sustainable and healthy produce, and improving the experience for customers, as well as the working conditions of all employees. The lecture was particularly useful for the Year 13s, many of whom will head into business at the end of their academic career.
Addressing the ‘leaders of tomorrow’, Mike made it clear that simply managing a business is no longer sufficient; businesses are required to tackle the bigger picture. The talk focused on challenging issues, such as health, wealth distribution, the environment and innovative business models. With engaging questions and enthusiastic delivery, Mike discussed the issues that the future presents; that we are living on a planet struggling to provide for the needs of 7 billion people, where a further 50% food, energy and 30% more water are needed for the next 20 years. Mike went on to explain how businesses need to prove themselves ‘socially useful’; not just creating value for shareholders but also for people, communities and the planet too, by radically changing approaches to business. He also focused on how Marks and Spencer have tackled these issues. Developing ways for the high street chain to be zero waste, with low carbon emissions and using sustainable raw materials formed a large part of the approach, along with embracing new technologies – such as artificial intelligence – were discussed.
The students found Mike’s straightforward and energetic approach refreshing. Looking at current environmental, sociological and political issues from a business point of view helped to galvanise the pupils, giving them an appreciation of the impact on businesses; heading into a highly competitive working environment, a knowledge of wider challenges faced by businesses is crucial to set candidates apart. The pupils had the opportunity to ask insightful questions following Mike’s talk, such as the consequence to Britain’s economy should we decide to exit Europe. Mr Alex Hunt, who organised the talk, commented that he was ‘hugely impressed by the level of concentration shown from each student in the lecture; they were clearly gripped and asked some really perceptive questions which showed a high level of understanding. I would like to thank Mike for giving up time to visit the College.’
