Higher Business Series
The Higher Business Series is a fresh take on what business can be when it’s done with purpose. In each episode, we step back from the everyday to explore how ethics, sustainability, and inclusivity aren’t just ideals—they’re strategic advantages. This is your space for a mental refresh, a spark of inspiration, and a reminder that doing good business is good business.
Episode 1
Creating a Thriving Culture
What does it take to build a business that genuinely thrives—ethically, sustainably, and inclusively?
In our first episode, David shares his journey from corporate leadership to championing global sustainability, while Arlene brings powerful insights from decades of DEI work across major organisations.
Together, they explore how prioritising people and planet isn't just good practice—it's smart strategy. Packed with real stories, hard-won lessons, and practical wisdom, this conversation is a must-watch for anyone ready to lead with purpose.
Episode 2
Rethinking Stakeholder Engagement
How can businesses build real trust with stakeholders while navigating complex sustainability goals and regulatory pressure?
In this episode of The Higher Business Series, host Victoria Whitaker (Partner, Deloitte Climate & Sustainability) leads a candid conversation about moving beyond box-ticking toward meaningful, long-term engagement.
She’s joined by Chris Andrew, an advisor in Indigenous engagement, and Cecilia Anthony, a seasoned policy strategist and former political advisor.
Together, they unpack the pitfalls of performative consultation and offer practical strategies for building inclusive, transparent relationships that stand up to scrutiny—and deliver real value.
Episode 3
The Science of Smarter Decision Making
In this episode, Dr Juliet Bourke shares the story behind her groundbreaking work on diversity of thought — and why it matters more than ever in leadership and decision-making. Drawing on her experience as a lawyer, Deloitte partner, and global researcher, Juliet unpacks the real meaning of cognitive diversity and how it intersects with demographic diversity.
She discusses how different ways of thinking can dramatically improve decision quality, reduce risk, and spark innovation — and why most teams are missing critical perspectives without even knowing it.
This episode is essential viewing for leaders who want to build stronger teams, make better decisions, and lead with purpose.
“I wanted to write a book that was, in some ways, the defining work on diversity of thinking — because I couldn’t see anything like it in the market.”
— Dr Juliet Bourke
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