On 29th November, Professor Ken McPhail, the new Head of Alliance Manchester Business School at The University of Manchester, was invited to deliver a keynote speech on ‘The Changing Role of Business in Society’ at the exclusive CEO Roundtable, during his first visit to Shanghai. The event was hosted at The University of Manchester China Centre, drawing C-suite members from the British Chamber of Commerce as well as senior Manchester Global MBA alumni in China.

Professor Ken McPhail

Head of Alliance Manchester Business School, The University of Manchester

During the session, Professor McPhail took a pragmatic look at the role of business within a rapidly changing society. He explored the nuanced dynamics of risk and opportunity, driven by e-commerce digitization and the evolution from globalization to 'Slobalization.' Discussions highlighted the imperative for new knowledge, working methodologies, and leadership styles, emphasizing skills like imagination, disruption, innovation, speed, purpose, partnership, and change management. From the transformational impact of AI to climate change, there is a growing need for firms to not only navigate these challenges to protect their interests, but to play a leading role in wider efforts to tackle them.

Professor McPhail also highlighted business and human rights as a new way of thinking about corporate social responsibility with the case study of Mastercard, which showcased a transition from humanitarian aid solutions as mere corporate social responsibility (CSR) to innovative business models. The narrative shifted from efficiency and effectiveness to trust and purpose, illustrating how Mastercard's humanitarian technologies aimed at achieving "digital dignity."

Professor Ken McPhail shared his insights on the opportunities and challenges for business leaders within China’s economic and societal landscape, with a focus on sustainability initiatives such as the circular economy, ecological civilization, and "beautiful China," aligning with the populace's aspirations for an enhanced quality of life. Green tech emerged as a strategic focus to navigate economic growth sustainably and an increasing number of patents in green tech was highlighted.

Professor Ken McPhail concluded by emphasizing the vast opportunities in business school networks and education, coupled with the recognition of a persistent skills and leadership gap. “At Alliance Manchester Business School, we are educating the next generation of leaders who can navigate the challenges of a hugely dynamic and complex business environment. Innovation and the power of leadership is the key to the future of business, aligning purpose with profitability.”

After the presentation, Professor McPhail led an interactive discussion with the audience on how to define ‘good’ business behaviour and how to measure performance against this based on different industry sectors.

About Professor Kenneth McPhail

Professor Ken McPhail is Head of Alliance Manchester Business School at The University of Manchester. He was previously Deputy Head and Director of Research. Before this, Ken was Vice Dean for Social Responsibility within the Faculty of Humanities at the University of Manchester. As Vice Dean, Ken oversaw the strategic development and implementation of the university's distinctive social responsibility agenda across 5 schools, 36 disciplines, 18,000 students and 1,800 academic and support staff. In addition, Ken also sat on the University’s Social Responsibility Governance Group, chaired by the Vice Chancellor and Principal.

On 1st August 2023, Professor Ken McPhail succeeded Professor Fiona Devine as Head of AMBS, who has now become Vice-President and Dean of Humanities at The University of Manchester.