The impact of the Covid crisis and the Black Lives Matter movements have acted as an x-ray on our societies, exposing deep economic and social injustices. Business leaders and staff across the world are questioning their practices: If we are genuinely recruiting on merit, why do so many workers at the top still look and sound the same? How do we compete in a global marketplace for diverse new customers? How can we make our commitment to diversity and inclusion more than just a soundbite? Can social justice also be a business opportunity?

This report outlines five principles for deepening meritocracy in the workplace. Each one is illustrated with practical case studies from leaders living these values every day, from the CEO of the Body Shop to leaders at McKinsey, Intertek and Network Rail. Each principle is also accompanied by tangible actions that can be taken by business leaders and organisations to serve both social justice and good business sense.