The Governing Body of the Future?
Over 30 of the most influential executives from across the sport industry united today to share their opinions on the importance of ethics in sport at the second of the Beyond Sport Leadership Series, presented by Mishcon de Reya.
Guests including David Grevemberg, CEO, Commonwealth Games Federation, Nathan Homer, head of global sponsorship, Barclays, Keir Starmer KCB QC, Barrister, Mishcon de Reya and Katrien Meire, CEO, Charlton Athletic Football Club came together to form a debate on ethics in sport.
The thought-provoking discussion gave those in attendance the chance to share their views on best practice around ethical governance and responsible leadership. Key themes included the challenges governing bodies of today face; the role that the media and sponsors can play in driving ethical governance within sport and the key ingredients that are needed to create a transparent and ethically-sound governing body.
Commenting on what the governing body of the future should look like, David Grevemberg, CEO, Commonwealth Games Federation, said: “World sport has now become more publically accountable than ever before, and with that we need to practice certain ethics in public life. Each federation needs to start upholding a set of principles by which it lives.
“That starts by being selfless and objective, accountable, working with integrity, and at the same time being honest and leading from the front.
“That’s what I feel the sport federations of today and tomorrow will be measured by.”
Katrien Meire, CEO, Charlton Athletic Football Club, added: “A sport really needs an independent body that assesses the problems regarding ethics, so if they see there is an issue they can sanction the members.
“Leadership is being able to have external accountability - to live up to expectations but also to make brave decisions under a lot of pressure.”
The conversation advanced to the power of social media, and how its ascent is increasing the need for organisations to act with ethics as a constant priority. Additional to this, the dangers of self-regulation and the seemingly growing need for an independent authority or body was also a pressing topic at today’s table.
Liz Ellen, Head of Sports Group, Mishcon de Reya, said: “Working with Beyond Sport to host these discussions with some of the most influential leaders within our industry is a great opportunity for us to address the role that sport has in promoting good business.
“Sadly, when good stewardship fails, the impact is felt far beyond those directly involved and can tarnish whole industries.
“We are very grateful for the value that our guests added to today’s discussion, and we very much look forward to hosting the third in the series over the coming months.”
The Beyond Sport Leadership Series, in partnership with Mishcon de Reya is a three-year series of events that brings together senior leaders from the worlds of sport, business and public affairs. Beyond Sport promotes and supports the use of sport to address key social issues across the globe and works closely with Mishcon de Reya who provides the opportunity to bring the key thought leaders together to tackle these issues.