Business Ethics: Where Profit Meets Principles

Course Overview

Course Description:

In this course, we aim to provide you with a holistic understanding of conscious capitalism and ethical business practices. Throughout the program, you'll explore purpose-driven business models, the importance of making ethical decisions and navigating the world of corporate social responsibility (CSR). We'll explore how to strike a harmonious balance between profitability and social impact, foster inclusive workplace cultures, and measure the broader effects of your business. You'll also delve into stakeholder engagement, social entrepreneurship, and global business ethics. By the end, you'll be equipped to understand and craft a business strategy that combines profit with principles, making a positive impact on both your organisation and the world. Join us on this transformative journey!

Related SDGs:

SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth:

This course aligns with the goal of promoting sustained, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth, as it focuses on ethical business practices that contribute to a fair and ethical work environment.

SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure:

The course may explore ethical considerations in innovation and infrastructure development, promoting responsible business practices within the industry.

SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production:

Business ethics are essential in promoting responsible consumption and production patterns. The course may address ethical considerations in resource use and waste reduction.

SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions:

Business ethics contribute to the goal of promoting peaceful and inclusive societies through the promotion of ethical behaviour, transparency, and accountability.

SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals:

Ethical business practices often involve collaboration and partnerships with various stakeholders, contributing to the global goal of revitalizing the global partnership for sustainable development.

ESG:Governance Pillar

Course Outline and Learning Objectives

Session 1: Introduction to Conscious Capitalism | Date: TBC | Time: 18:00 - 20:30

• Define the concept of conscious capitalism and its core principles.

• Explain the historical evolution of business ethics and corporate responsibility.

• Understand the importance of aligning profit motives with ethical values in contemporary business.

Session 2: The Power of Purpose-Driven Business | Date: TBC | Time: 18:00 - 20:00

• Identify the key elements of a purpose-driven business.

• Analyse case studies of successful purpose-driven companies and their impact.

• Articulate the benefits of having a clear and compelling organisational purpose.

Session 3: Building a Sustainable Business Model | Date: TBC | Time: 18:00 - 20:00

• Describe the components of a sustainable business model.

• Evaluate the environmental and social implications of different business models.

• Develop a framework for incorporating sustainability into business strategy and operations.

Session 4: Ethical Leadership and Decision-Making | Date: TBC | Time: 18:00 - 20:00

• Explore the characteristics of ethical leadership and its impact on organisational culture.

• Analyse ethical dilemmas in business and apply ethical decision-making frameworks.

• Demonstrate the ability to make ethical decisions in challenging business situations.

Session 5: Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in Action | Date: TBC | Time: 18:00 - 20:00

• Define corporate social responsibility (CSR) and its various dimensions.

• Examine CSR initiatives across industries and their effectiveness.

• Create a CSR plan for a fictional company, considering stakeholder interests.

Session 6: Creating a Culture of Empathy and Inclusivity | Date: TBC | Time: 18:00 - 20:00

• Understand the importance of diversity and inclusion in the workplace.

• Identify strategies for fostering a culture of empathy and inclusivity.

• Develop practical initiatives to promote diversity and inclusion within an organisation.

Session 7: The Triple Bottom Line: People, Planet, and Profit | Date: TBC | Time: 18:00 - 20:00

• Explain the concept of the triple bottom line and its components.

• Evaluate the economic, social, and environmental performance of a business.

• Construct a sustainability report for a company, integrating the triple bottom line framework.

Session 8: Measuring Social and Environmental Impact | Date: TBC | Time: 18:00 - 20:00

• Discuss the various methods and tools for measuring social and environmental impact.

• Interpret impact assessment data to make informed decisions.

• Apply impact measurement techniques to real-world business scenarios.

Session 9: Social Entrepreneurship and Innovation | Date: TBC | Time: 18:00 - 20:00

• Define social entrepreneurship and its unique characteristics.

• Examine successful social entrepreneurship models and case studies.

• Create a social entrepreneurship business plan, including impact measurement strategies

Session 10: The Role of Stakeholder Engagement | Date: TBC | Time: 18:00 - 20:00

• Identify key stakeholders in a business and their interests.

• Explore strategies for effective stakeholder engagement and communication.

• Develop a stakeholder engagement plan to address specific business challenges.

Session 11: Ethics in Supply Chain Management | Date: TBC | Time: 18:00 - 20:00

• Understand the ethical issues and risks associated with supply chain management.

• Evaluate ethical sourcing and procurement practices.

• Explore a code of ethics for supply chain operations and supplier relationships.

Session 12: Building a Purpose-Driven Business | Date: TBC | Time: 18:00 - 20:30

• Overview of the knowledge and skills acquired throughout the course.

• Design a comprehensive action plan for integrating principles into an existing or hypothetical business.

• Present the action plan, demonstrating the ability to articulate a vision for a socially responsible and profitable business.

Who is this Course For?

Entrepreneurs: Those starting their own businesses or seeking to revamp existing ones focusing on social responsibility and ethical practices.

Business Leaders: Executives and managers looking to lead their organisations toward a more purpose-driven and socially conscious approach to business.

CSR Professionals: Individuals working in the field of Corporate Social Responsibility or sustainability who want to enhance their knowledge and skills.

Students and Educators: College and university students studying business, ethics, or related fields, as well as educators seeking to incorporate ethical business principles into their curriculum.

Social Entrepreneurs: Aspiring and existing social entrepreneurs aiming to create businesses that address societal and environmental challenges.

Anyone Interested in Ethical Business: Individuals with a passion for ethical business practices and a desire to make a positive impact on the world while still achieving profitability.

Whether you're starting your own venture, leading a corporation, or simply curious about how to align profit with principles, this course offers valuable insights and tools to help you succeed in the world of ethical business.

Prerequisites: No specific prerequisites are required to attend. This course is designed to be accessible to a wide range of participants, including those with varying levels of prior knowledge or experience.

Lecturer: TBC