Business as a force for good
Business is not perfect, but it is essential
Business thrives when leaders think long-term and act for the many – driving jobs, investment, and innovation that sustain resilient societies. The IoD develops, connects, and qualifies directors to raise standards and ensure enterprise strengthens society.
CHAIR
“The Institute can make a difference by helping directors navigate the changes that political turbulence creates.”
John Browett
I am optimistic that, despite headwinds, the opportunity for further progress remains. I have no doubt that business is and will remain a force for good, and our members will continue to lead the way.
Director General
“By investing in staff development, strengthening our team and evolving our core offer, we are positioning the Institute for sustained success.”
Jonathan Geldart
Continued progress gives us the confidence to look further ahead. It allows us to consider how the Institute should evolve, how we lead, and how we continue to demonstrate our value.
Chief Financial Officer
“Building on the solid foundations established, the organisation made conscious choices to reinvest back into the business and strengthen our resilience.”
Kate Cooper
2025 was a good year financially with revenues up but the IoD accepted short term underlying margin pressure in order to reinvest back into the business and strengthen resilience.
2025 highlights
People and culture
The IoD’s success depends on our people. In 2025, we focused on creating conditions for colleagues to thrive – through a supportive culture, meaningful development, and tools that help teams perform at their best.
Marten Lewis
For Marten Lewis, business, sustainability, and community are inseparable. At Bluestone, this means supporting local employment, reducing environmental impact, and driving practical innovation – demonstrating how commercial success and social responsibility reinforce one another.
Joyce Onuonga
Leading a 300-year-old company, Joyce Onuonga balances heritage with progress – modernising operations and embracing new technologies, while sustaining strong social impact through community support, employment, and widening access to opportunity.
Barry Bryne
For Barry Byrne, success is reflected in the opportunities a business creates. Through investment in development, training and clear career pathways, he supports long-term careers and a stable workforce, reinforcing the role of business in creating lasting opportunity.
Looking ahead
The year ahead will bring further economic and political challenges, but our resilience is strong and our ambitions remain high. We are confident the Institute is well placed to navigate what lies ahead – and that our forward-looking approach will ensure we continue to grow and prosper.
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