How do you turn an ambitious corporate commitment on social impact and inclusivity into reality? Meet Social Impact Pioneer Amanda Smith. Amanda is the Head of Community Impact at Diageo. Diageo is a global leader in premium drinks, renowned for its portfolio of over 200 iconic brands, including Johnnie Walker, Tanqueray, Guinness, and Smirnoff. Operating in nearly 180 countries and employing over 30,000 people worldwide.
At the heart of Diageo’s ethos is its Spirit of Progress plan, a commitment to sustainable growth through inclusive programs that empower individuals and communities. From business and hospitality skills training to innovative water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) initiatives, Diageo aims to create a positive impact where they operate. A key focus is championing diversity and inclusion, ensuring that 50% of beneficiaries in their community programs are women, thus enhancing opportunities for underrepresented groups.
Amanda is the lady behind turning this ambitious commitment into reality. With her extensive experience in creating inclusive programs, Amanda shares insights into how Diageo integrates social responsibility into its core business strategy. We’ll discuss the importance of inclusivity in WASH initiatives and how these efforts not only benefit women and girls but also strengthen communities.
As we navigate through Amanda’s journey and the impactful work at Diageo, you’ll discover why the time for social responsibility is now and how businesses can harness their influence to drive positive change. Amanda shares how Diageo have been actively addressing human rights and inclusion in their value chain for some time. With the emerging social impact regulations, including Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD) coming into action in Europe – we talk about how Diageo has been preparing for it and why regulation doesn’t need to be all about risk and compliance.
Don’t miss this engaging conversation about innovation, inclusion, and the future of sustainable business practices.
Links:
Diageo, Inclusive Business Approach
Task Force on Taskforce on Inequality and Social-related Financial Disclosures
Oxford University, Leading Sustainable Corporations
Wash4Work, CEO Water Mandate: WASH benefits accounting framework
Diageo (2023), Human Rights, Global Policies
The Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD) – Directive (EU) 2024/1760
And if you liked this, do take a look at Business Fights Poverty, Global Goals Summit 2024 session on Driving ESG Innovation in the New Regulatory Context with Meta
