Latest ‘Original Ideas’ Podcast Looks at Sustainable Business and Future Leadership
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The University of Liverpool’s latest Original Ideas Podcast focuses on how businesses can meet environmental and social goals while remaining competitive.
In this episode, Professor Jo Meehan, Director of the Centre for Sustainable Business at the Management School, explains the principles of responsible procurement and the systemic shifts needed to tackle today’s sustainability challenges.
University of Liverpool Management School MBA alumna, Postgraduate Researcher and Graduate Teaching Fellow Clare Westcott contributes from the perspective of PhD research on sustainable business.
Professor Meehan introduces the Centre’s new executive education programme, Shaping Sustainable Futures, designed to help leaders embed sustainability into decision-making. Through scenario planning and cross-sector collaboration, participants explore ways to anticipate risks, identify opportunities and align business strategy with long-term environmental and social outcomes.
The podcast covers the Centre’s work with organisations of all sizes, including UK company John Lewis Partnership, which is a positive example of a successful business which puts sustainability for people and planet at the heart of its strategy.
By turning research into practical tools, the Centre supports companies in setting targets, measuring impact and reporting on progress. Case studies illustrate how simple changes in supply chains and procurement policies can drive wider industry transformation.
Jo Meehan shares examples of businesses that have adopted circular economy models, reduced carbon footprints and engaged stakeholders in sustainability goals. This highlights the role of leadership in creating a culture where sustainability is part of every business decision.
Listen to Original Ideas Podcast Episode 8: Sustainable Business
You can also listen to previous episodes, including Popular Music, Artificial Intelligence, Feminist Cities and Air Pollution.
You can also listen on Spotify or Apple Podcasts:
Centre for Sustainable Business (CSB) Summer Conference
Learn more about the Centre for Sustainable Business and discover how today’s leaders are preparing for tomorrow’s challenges. Join our third in-person Centre for Sustainable Business (CSB) Summer Conference to explore what happens when businesses integrate the natural world into their decisions, structures and purpose.
Date: Wednesday, 11 June 2025
Times: 9am-4pm
Cost: free, including networking lunch
Place: Elizabeth Gidney Room, Liverpool Guild of Students, Reilly Building, University Pl, Liverpool L3 5RF
Book your free place at Centre for Sustainable Business Summer Conference 2025