Steven P. MacGregor

Exploring the Fit between CSR and Innovation

An exploration of the fit or space between CSR and innovation is presented, based on the RESPONSE project, a 15-month study involving 60 SMEs throughout Europe. The main practical output of the project was the Social Innovation model, yet a conceptual understanding of CSR and innovation is best advanced through the three hypotheses that constitute the conclusions of the project: H1) The diffusion of CSR should be modelled on the diffusion of innovation; H2) CSR implementation and innovation can be configured to form a virtuous circle; and H3) There is a maturity path toward true integration of CSR and innovation. These three hypotheses inform, respectively, on the background, results and development of the project. H1 is framed within the context of the original European Commission call and proposal; H2 ties in with the Social Innovation model; and H3 is discussed in the light of a short case involving a high-performing SME. Since the hypotheses were the result of the project, we do not attempt to prove them here, but discuss their significance, with the idea that further research and community development will fully evaluate their accuracy.

Towards whole person learning through sustainable executive performance

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to present the authors’ approach to managerial experiential learning, sustainable executive performance (SEP) and attempt to situate the concept within the business, societal, and managerial development context. SEP focuses on whole person mastery, particularly physiological and physiological‐psychological elements which are largely ignored in management education.Design/methodology/approach – The narrative is based on several custom and executive MBA program implementations over the past 18 months within a leading global business school. In total, SEP has been delivered to over 500 senior managers in leading multinational companies. Such program experiences are backed up by the relevant literature in the field and wider executive education experiences over the past ten years.Findings – The authors present SEP in the form of the experiential action learning cycle employed during its delivery. The stages of awareness, legitimacy and action provide insight to the evolu...