Associate Dean for the School of Business, Dave Gannon spoke recently at the . Dave who has teaching and research interests in Human Resources and cross-cultural management, presented on social sustainability within organizations.
The seminar was hosted from Taiwan and also covered cultural sustainability and management in the art world, as well as the role of governments in implementing the 17 Sustainable Development Goals by 2030, outlined by the United Nations General Assembly.
Dave鈥檚 presentation explained how sustainability for a business can come in many forms, although a key point which is often ignored, is that of an organization鈥檚 responsibility to enhance social inclusiveness in the communities in which they operate. Society contains many groups, some of whom can be classified as marginalised groups, groups which can be defined as lacking inclusion in the economic and social sphere.
Groups such as the disabled, members of the LBGBT community, or those who have been to prison, are often overlooked and excluded from working opportunities. But, in a climate where businesses report difficulties in sourcing talent, these marginalized groups offer a talent pool which can meet not only their immediate workforce needs, but lead to development and innovation in the future.
His presentation also highlighted some of the current issues facing marginalised groups and how a commitment to social inclusion can benefit both organisations and members of marginalized groups.