Sir Charlie Mayfield

Danny Shaw, a home affairs commentator and former BBC correspondent, dives into the alarming release of two prisoners due to clerical errors, discussing the systemic flaws in inter-agency communication and safeguards. Sir Charlie Mayfield, the former chairman of John Lewis, shares insights from his report on the workforce crisis caused by ill health. He highlights the impact of youth mental health on employment and proposes innovative solutions like stay-in-work plans and the use of AI to support workers. Together, they explore the accountability and systemic changes needed in both justice and employment sectors.

Chander Velu, an expert in business model innovation and professor at Cambridge, and Sir Charlie Mayfield, former head of John Lewis, dive into how strategic business model shifts can enhance productivity. They discuss the four Vs of innovation, the importance of overcoming cognitive barriers in large firms, and share insights on John Lewis’s transition to online retail. The duo emphasizes that true returns come from deep business model transformations, especially for SMEs facing unique challenges. They also highlight the role of digital technology and sustainability in shaping the future of business.