HBR IdeaCast

First He Saved Unilever. Now He Wants to Save Capitalism.

Oct 5, 2021

Paul Polman, former CEO of Unilever and advocate for sustainable business, discusses his journey towards redefining capitalism. He shares insights from his new book, emphasizing a multi-stakeholder approach that benefits society and the environment. Polman highlights the need for courageous leadership to drive systemic change in corporate practices while balancing profit with social responsibility. He also introduces his consultancy IMAGINE, aimed at fostering collaboration among executives to tackle pressing global challenges like climate change and inequality.

24:41

Creator website

Episode guests

Paul Polman

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Episode notes

Intro

3min

Navigating Capitalism with Purpose

11min

Collaborative Leadership for Systemic Change

5min

Courageous Leadership for Systemic Change

8min

Navigating Sustainable Capitalism: Insights from a Former CEO

2min

Paul Polman, former CEO of Unilever, led a dazzling career in consumer goods, from Procter & Gamble to Nestlé to the British multinational. His experience fending off a hostile takeover bid taught him that the doctrine of shareholder capitalism is wrong. He believes there’s a better way of doing business, one that embraces all stakeholders — not just stockholders — and improves the environment. He cofounded the consultancy IMAGINE to further sustainable goals, and he shares his advice for the next generation of leaders. With Andrew Winston, Polman wrote the new book “Net Positive: How Courageous Companies Thrive by Giving More than They Take”.

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