Ethics and Values for Businesses of the Future: Reflections on the International Conference at Leeds Trinity University

Keynote Speakers

The event featured three distinguished speakers:

Paul Palmarozza

A veteran of business ethics, Paul discussed the urgent need for ethical entrepreneurship. He emphasized that the current business climate often prioritizes short-term gains over long-term ethical considerations, which has led to a significant erosion of public trust. Paul advocated for a balance between profit and commitment to shared values, noting that younger generations increasingly reject traditional corporate environments that fail to align with their ethical standards.

Professor Jonathan Liu

Jonathan focused on the necessity of developing cultural competencies in business. He articulated how understanding diverse cultural perspectives is vital for ethical decision-making in an increasingly globalized economy. He emphasized awareness of personal biases, understanding different cultural practices, and developing communication skills as key components of cultural competence.

Dr. Ann Marie Mealey

In her presentation, Dr. Mealey reinforced the importance of values such as dignity, respect, and inclusivity in education and business practices. She elaborated on how these values align with the university's mission, aiming to foster a sense of community that values diversity and promotes ethical decision-making among students. She also gave examples of how understanding the student story and demographic can ensure that our pedagogical approach is just, fair and values-driven overall.

Building University Culture with Ethical Foundations

Dr. Mealey further elaborated on how Leeds Trinity University strives to instil these values in its curriculum. She discussed the significance of nurturing a university culture that reflects the institution's Catholic mission, ensuring that students not only acquire knowledge but also learn the importance of ethical behaviour and civic responsibility.

Dr. Mealey highlighted various initiatives within the university aimed at promoting community service and social responsibility among students. By engaging in service-learning projects, students gain practical experience while embodying the values of care, respect, and inclusivity.

The Role of Leadership in Ethical Business Practices

The conference concluded with remarks from Vice-Chancellor, Charles Egbu, who emphasized the pivotal role of leadership in fostering an ethical culture within educational institutions and businesses. He articulated that leaders are responsible for setting the tone and creating an environment where ethical practices are not just encouraged but are integral to organizational identity.

Charles discussed how universities can serve as models for ethical behaviour by promoting transparency, accountability, and inclusive practices. He stressed that by instilling these values in students, institutions prepare future leaders to navigate complex ethical dilemmas in the business world.

Engaging Discussion and Q&A

The conference featured an engaging discussion session, allowing attendees to interact with the speakers. Participants raised important questions about the practical implementation of ethical practices in business and education. Discussions focussed on how universities like Leeds Trinity can effectively embed these values in their curricula.

Conclusion

The International Conference at Leeds Trinity University served as a vital platform for exploring the intersection of ethics, values, and business education. As we navigate a complex global landscape, the need for ethical leadership and cultural competencies has never been more crucial. The insights shared by the speakers underscored the importance of integrating ethical practices into business education, ensuring that future leaders are equipped to make responsible decisions that benefit society at large.

This conference not only reaffirmed Leeds Trinity University’s commitment to its values but also set the stage for future discussions on building a more ethical and inclusive business environment.