The Rewards and Challenges of Integrating Responsible Business Practices

The Rewards and Challenges of Integrating Responsible Business Practices at the Center of the Agenda for BSR’s 2004 Annual Conference

Many business leaders have moved beyond the basic need to justify the incorporation of greater corporate social responsibility (CSR) into the way they manage their enterprise. The challenge that many now face is the more complex integration of environmental, human rights, stakeholder engagement and other CSR practices in a meaningful way throughout their entire organization. It is with this key challenge in mind that Business for Social Responsibility (BSR) hosts the largest event of its kind where business leaders from around the globe will meet November 9-12, in New York City to share solutions.

The line-up for the BSR 2004 Annual Conference will feature over 30 instructive and interactive break-out sessions, each designed to build and enhance the expertise of managers and corporate officers alike around issues of integrating CSR. The slate of speakers will include business leaders and area experts including:
- Sir Tom McKillop, Chief Executive of AstraZeneca plc
- John Morgridge, Chairman of the Board at Cisco Systems
- Anne Mulcahy, Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of Xerox Corporation
- Paul Pressler, President and Chief Executive Officer at Gap Inc.
- Paul Skinner, Chairman of Rio Tinto plc and Rio Tinto Limited
- Joseph E. Stiglitz, 2001 recipient of the Nobel Prize in economics, Professor of Economics and Finance at Columbia University, and former Chief Economist and Senior Vice-President of the World Bank and chairman of the Council of Economic Advisors for the Clinton administration.

Consistently drawing the attendance of more than 1,000 leaders from business, civil society and the public sector, and representation from more than 35 countries, the BSR Annual Conference is one of the largest and most valuable networking and learning forums for CSR experts and those new to the field. Register before October 9th and receive discounted rates.

Recent events demonstrate that businesses that approach CSR integration without rigor, discipline, strategy and wisdom can find themselves at a disadvantage. Companies that raise false expectations, discount the complexities of operating in the global economy, neglect to ensure that resources are wisely deployed, or fail to act in a consistent manner may find themselves paying a price that is both great and disruptive to their business.

Companies that successfully integrate CSR across all areas of their business stand to gain financial and social benefits through the identification of new business opportunities, the strengthening of their brands and corporate reputation, the attraction and retention of top employees, and recognition as a trusted partner. Successful CSR integration also creates a climate that can enhance public acceptance and support. We invite you to join us in November to learn more.