Wales needs every talent to prosper

STORIES of sexual harassment at a gathering of players in the property sector at the President’s Club dinner in London horrified not just the City, but the country.

How was it considered acceptable to behave so disgracefully? Is this how Britain’s wealthy still carry on behind closed doors – like predators?

Among the millions who were appalled was Dame Helena Morrissey, a mother of nine who rose to the top of the finance sector and has invested time and energy in helping to create a more diverse business culture.

She does not want people to stay away from financial services because they fear the corridors of commerce are stalked by odious figures.

Instead, she has worked to ensure that at least three in 10 boardroom positions are held by women.

She doesn’t just want diversity of gender, she wants diversity of thought. This philosophy graduate is pushing for people from a wide range of backgrounds to be able to forge careers in finance.

Her response to the President’s Club scandal was to help launch a series of new dinners that will raise funds for charities that may have lost out as a result of the demise of this fundraising event, as well as helping others around the country.

A “Diverse City” gala will be held at Cardiff’s National Museum on June 27, which will feature rugby icon Gareth Thomas. This is an opportunity to celebrate a very different type of business culture, and Britain and Wales will be better off if the sexism, boorishness and aggression of the past are consigned to history.

We need agile and inclusive businesses able to respond to the needs of a pluralistic society and grasp global opportunities. Businesses in which staff dread coming to work because they fear they will be bullied or harassed will never harness the creativity and innovation which today are essential for success.

The President’s Club debacle showed that the task of reforming business culture in Britain is far from complete. But it is encouraging that the likes of Dame Helena are not giving up the fight.

As a mother of six daughters she believes men and women often have different strengths and an inclusive company will benefit from a broader range of perspectives and approaches. Wales can’t afford to deny anyone the opportunity to use their talents and skills for the good of all.