How we think

Character and responsible leadership in business

We’re working on a landmark study into character and responsible leadership in business, led by eminent academics from the University of Oxford.

We’re working with Dr Edward Brooks and the Oxford Character Project, based at the University of Oxford, on a landmark study into character and responsible leadership in business. Led by eminent academics from across the university, the three-year research project focuses on financial services, technology, law and more broadly across business within a UK-specific context. 

This industry-based research involves: 

• A widescale survey of 3,000+ professionals to explore how good leadership is perceived within organisations and across sectors  
• An analysis of 220 UK firms to identify the values that drive their strategy, operations and culture 
• Over 120 in-depth interviews with leaders at different levels across organisations 
• A validated model of the developmental culture of organisations, focusing on values, character and leadership 

Our aim with this research is to advance responsible leadership in organisations and across business sectors in the UK. Rigorous industry-based research sits at the heart of this endeavour, and we’re grateful to our industry partners including Arm, Burges Salmon LLP, easyJet Holidays, Jude’s Ice Cream, Lloyds Banking Group, Nationwide Building Society, NatWest Group, Standard Chartered, Womble Bond Dickinson LLP and Forum Chambers for taking part. We’re also supported by our experienced and diverse advisory group. 

Learn more about the Oxford Character Project.