Social visionary

A profile of social entrepreneur Craig Dearden-Phillips, founder of Speaking Up, based in Cambridge, England, which helps disabled people to take control of their lives rather become institutionalised. He started with a good idea, but realised that he lacked the experience and managerial skills to translate his vision into a sustainable reality. So he turned to advisers with private equity experience and big-business know-how. Today, the organisation employs 135 people, has an in–come of more than £3m a year, and touches the lives of more than 4,000 people with disabilities, learning difficulties and mental health problems.

More than an inspiring story in itself, this article is a fine introduction to the growing trend of ‘social entrepreneurship’.

(from the Financial Times)

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The euro-area economy: Too good to last

As 2008 dawned, Europe was poised for another year of prosperity and high-performance – European economies were growing healthily, the Euro was strong, the credit crunch was an American problem. But in an increasingly globalised marketplace, it’s becoming apparent that there are no merely local problems. Mid-way through a turbulent year, the Economist provides a cogent analysis of the current and future economic situation in Europe.

(from the Economist)

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The Open Secret of Success

If current trends continue through the end of 2008, Toyota will have sold more cars than any manufacturer in the world – which will bring General Motors’ seventy-seven year streak to an end. This article takes a look at Toyota’s formulas for success, many of which focus on modest but constant improvements, year after year. Toyota sets a valuable example for businesses of all sizes, not just large corporations.  Indeed, they may be especially useful to entrepreneurs, for whom greater efficiency can mean the difference between success and failure.

(from the New Yorker Magazine)

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The Global CFO Study 2008

The IBM Global CFO Study 2008 focuses on how Finance organisations can balance competing priorities of growth, risk and performance insight, while adding significant value to the business. More than 1200 CFOs and Senior Finance Executives from 79 countries were surveyed, representing every major industry sector. The result is a roadmap for how CFOs, or whoever manages the financial dimension of your business, can help shape operational decisions and strategic direction.
 
(NB: the study is free, but does require registration. An executive summary is available without registering.)

(from IBM.com)

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And you?  What news stories are you following this week?