I believe that business holds the keys to our collective future. Recent events have shown that striving for profit is in itself an arid objective unless it is in the context of a wider vision for an organisation, one that contributes towards making the world a better place for us and, more importantly, for our children. This vision needs to be central to how an organisation acts, and not just a piece of marketing-speak.

It is business’ constant drive for profitability and economic growth, acting uncaringly and without integrity, that has created the current global financial crisis, and the serious environmental issues we now face.

Business needs to evolve, and find a new way of being, one that aligns profit with a sense of higher purpose – a Purpose beyond Profit. Business must discover its heart, its humanity, and connect with people, develop emotional depth, and become more rounded. New leaders are needed, people with emotional intelligence who act with integrity and have a sense of morality, doing what is right and not what is expedient, willing to serve. They will recognise that the role of business must stretch much wider than just the arid pursuit of economic growth for its own sake.

The role of the New Leader is straightforward.

• To make the workplace a fulfilling and enjoyable place to be, minimising stress, and maximising human potential
• To act with respect, kindness and compassion towards others, and towards the planet; and to contribute tangibly towards that end

This is leadership with a selfless motivation; to serve others to help them be happier, more fulfilled – which will in itself improve business performance and profitability.