The Value of Values with Alison Taylor and Karen Wood

In an era of market pressure, political backlash, and accusations of “purpose-washing”, do corporate values still matter? Why isn’t making money legally enough? And in markets that reward short-term performance above all else, what does it take to uphold principles, integrity and trust?

This episode explores how values are a strategic imperative - not a “nice to have” - in shaping decisions, culture and legitimacy. The discussion cuts through slogans and corporate virtue signalling, asking what real values look like in practice and how leaders navigate tension between principle, and market or political pressure.

Hosts Lindsay Hooper and Marc Kahn are joined by:
• Alison Taylor — author of Higher Ground, leading thinker on business integrity and the realities of ethics in complex markets
• Karen Wood — experienced board chair and former industry leader with deep insight into the realities of governance and corporate decision-making

Together, they explore the value of values, what this demands from boards and executives, and how leaders can navigate contested social and political expectations without resorting to over-promising or retreat.

In partnership with the University of Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership (CISL) and Investec.

Key quotes:
“Purpose becomes powerful when it guides trade-offs, not when it avoids them.” – Karen Wood
“Values are now an imperative because if you don't have public trust, you will not retain your value. Without values, you do not retain your value.” – Alison Taylor

Key Takeaways
1. Values are strategic, not symbolic. In a world of scrutiny and social fragmentation, ethics and trust are essential to business resilience.
2. Purpose must be operational. It only matters when it shapes culture, strategy and trade-offs - not just communications.
3. Courage and clarity beat neutrality. Businesses can’t “stay out of politics” when their actions shape societal outcomes; alignment between policy and sustainability is vital.
4. Hope lies in honest leadership. A new generation is demanding authenticity and action - a signal that leadership grounded in purpose still resonates.

Credits
Presented by:
• Lindsay Hooper, Chief Executive, CISL
• Marc Kahn, Chief Strategy & Sustainability Officer, Investec
Produced by: Carl Homer (Cambridge TV) & Alexa Sellwood
Executive Producer: Gillian Secrett
In partnership with: Investec

Listen and Subscribe:
Available on all major podcast platforms or visit the Leadership Hub on the CISL website or Investec Focus for more episodes and insights.

Disclaimer:
The views in this podcast are those of the contributors, and don’t necessarily represent those of CISL, the University of Cambridge, or Investec, and should not be taken as advice or a recommendation.