We are delighted that Rita Clifton CBE has been appointed the Deputy Chair of John Lewis Partnership. It’s a perfect match. Rita is a great believer in purpose-led, values-driven brands which empower their people to deliver great customer experiences. And John Lewis is one of the great values-driven businesses. Its unique structure – a form of corporate democracy – has been essential to its enduring success.
Earlier this year, Rita was a guest on our Extra Shot Live to discuss her new book Love Your Imposter. She articulated with conviction and warmth her belief in the central importance of making business more ‘human’.
It’s a belief we share. In the words of the late Herb Kelleher ‘The Business of Business is People’.
It’s a message that seems even more important at this time of this year. Partly because it’s Christmas, a time when we think of others. But largely because as the pandemic continues to bring misery and mayhem to many millions around the world, we all are more conscious of our common humanity.
As the ghost of Marley cried to Scrooge, “Mankind was my business, the common welfare was my business”. We hope you enjoy the short video. Have a wonderful Christmas and here’s to 2021 being a much, much happier year. A brand new year in every possible positive way.
Andy Milligan, Founder, Caffeine
