Policy and governance
Championing business. Promoting good governance
Mandated by our Royal Charter, we promote good governance and represent our members’ interests at all levels of government. In 2024 we continued to champion pro-business policies and ethical leadership as well as providing valuable insights to decision-makers.
Advancing members’ interests
In 2024, the IoD influenced key areas that supported members. Against the backdrop of a fragile economy and political change, a number of policy asks were adopted including a corporate tax roadmap and reform of fiscal rules to drive economic stability and investment.
Policy Voice
Throughout 2024, we stayed close to our members through our Policy Voice monthly surveys. They provide a snapshot of sentiment across the entire UK business community and are closely watched by the UK government and widely reported in the media.
Insight on external trends, risks and opportunities
In 2024, we supported members with business-relevant insights on developments in the wider economic, political and regulatory environment. An extensive programme of webinars, papers, podcasts and newsletters enabled members to stay up to date on issues.
The Code of Conduct for Directors
Our groundbreaking new Code of Conduct for Directors represents a major milestone in governance leadership. A practical roadmap to help directors make the right decisions for themselves and their organisations – it was well received by both government and the business community.
Lessons from the Post Office scandal
We published an influential study on the Post Office scandal. The report highlighted critical lessons for enhancing directors’ skills and made a series of policy recommendations aimed at rebuilding trust in UK corporate governance.
Audit and governance standards
We continued to press the UK government to progress its proposal for robust audit and corporate governance reforms. These efforts were recognised in the King’s Speech in July 2024 where it was announced that a draft bill would be introduced in the coming parliament.
Sarah Walker-Smith
Sarah sees governance as an enabler – providing the confidence to act swiftly and manage risk. The IoD’s Chartered Director Qualification helped her lead with confidence, combing empathy with clear, practical frameworks. She champions optimism as a leadership choice, believing it motivates teams and builds resilience in tough times.
Alastair Elder
Alastair sees governance as a part of culture, not red tape, bringing values to life daily. The IoD’s training, policy groups and peer conversations sharpened his advisory skills. Having navigated repeated shocks in corporate and government roles, he advises directors to ‘know your offer, communicate constantly and embrace clarity’ for sustained growth.
Clare Winskill
On Skye, Clare runs Coruisk House while championing local enterprise. The IoD’s Finance for Non-Finance Directors course equipped her to navigate financial pressures and share those skills regionally. She values the IoD’s voluntary code of conduct for the confidence it gives her, and sees integrity and quiet leadership as the foundations of real resilience.
Looking Ahead
We will continue to promote the IoD Code of Conduct for Directors and supporting ethical leadership across UK boardrooms. Our advocacy remains focused on making the UK a competitive, stable and long-term-friendly place to do business.
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