News
Investor relations and stakeholder relations - part of the same story
At yesterday's 25th Investor Relations Society Annual Conference, moderated by Evan Davis, a clear, resounding message was iterated by each of the high profile speakers: investor relations and stakeholder relations are all part of the same story and need to be part of a co-ordinated communications programme. The widening and deepening role of IR was examined as guest speakers and delegates considered the evolving shareholder and stakeholder bases, IR in the M&A environment, the increased focus on sustainability in the investment process and the central position IR holds in corporate communications.
The central role that IR plays in today's company was emphasised by Carolyn McCall, CEO of easyJet and Sir Roger Carr, Chairman of Centrica and Chairman elect of the CBI. Two thirds of conference delegates agreed that it was important to balance the financial and non-financial interests of shareholders and stakeholders. When asked which shareholders they would prefer on their register, most delegates would welcome investment from a Sovereign Wealth Fund, but warning bells would sound for 80% if an activist investor turned up on the share register.
Chairman Richard Davies said "This conference demonstrates the remit and scope of the modern investor relations professional. In our 25th conference year, we have shown that in ever more complex capital markets, investor relations is essential in seeking to eliminate what markets fear most - uncertainty. Today has been a great day and we look forward to our next conference in 2012!"
Further information contact:
The Investor Relations Society
Richard Davies - Chairman 020 7492 0501
Michael Mitchell - General Manager 020 7379 1763
Richard Knight - Comms/Membership Manager 020 7379 1763
MHP
Reg Hoare - 020 3128 8100
Daniel Rolle - 020 3128 8100
Twitter #IRConference2011
Published: 7 June, 2011