As a global organisation, we have a responsibility to work to build trust in the communities where we operate. Vandita Pant, Group Treasurer and Head of Europe, spoke at the annual Chatham House conference on Responsible Business this week about that work and the work of the BHP Billiton Foundation in science, engineering, technology and math (STEM) education.

“Being a responsible business makes both moral and commercial sense,” said Vandita on a panel alongside the CEO of the UN Global Compact, Lise Kingo and Chair of the OECD Working Party on Responsible Business Conduct, Roel Nieuwenkamp. “We need to do the right thing, which is more than just compliance, and we need to tell our story about our place in society in a more compelling way.”

Vandita went on to talk about our commitment to inclusion and diversity, climate change and transparency and shared positive examples of our gender equality work, as well as examples of our proactive transparency disclosures. She also spoke on the importance of research and development and in training and education, particularly in STEM.

Vandita concluded by saying, “Training and education are areas in which investment has not kept up with globalisation. Equipping people to compete in the future global economy is one of the most responsible things that a company can do.

“Today’s conversation is topical and is the start of a serious response to the whirlwinds of our time. To use the power of enterprise to be a force for good. It is an aim around which I think we must all rally and that BHP remains committed to.”

For more, read Vandita’s full speech.