If, as we build back better, London is to remain the best capital city in which to do business, business leaders need to focus on their people and culture. The continuing under-representation of Black executives and professionals in senior positions is under the microscope. It is a damaging reflection on corporate values, but how should it be addressed?
Leading commercial barrister Harry Matovu QC, in conversation with Paul Drechsler, Chair of London First, gives his insights and perspective as a senior Black professional who has had to work “twice as hard to get half as far”, and he offers a practical solution to shift the dial on the participation of Black talent in business and the professions.
Harry is the founder of the , supported by the City of London Corporation, London First, The Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales, ICAS (the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Scotland), Innovate Finance, the Bar Council and the Inns of Court, Magic Circle law firms and Big Four accountancy giants. Far from being another box-ticking exercise, it helps business to make clear, data-led, measurable commitments to improve the recruitment and promotion of talented Black professionals to senior levels, and to give them a fair opportunity to develop their talents and make a full contribution to their firms and to the wider economy. Businesses and firms can sign up to the Charter