WATSON is thrilled to be part of the first wave of BC companies to become a Benefit Company. This further reinforces WATSON focus to work with organizations who enhance Canadian society.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – October 26, 2021
Canada’s largest multidisciplinary governance and leadership firm doubles down on its focus on promoting social value and sustainable business for Canada.
Vancouver, British Columbia – Watson Advisors Inc. (WATSON)–Canada’s largest multidisciplinary governance and leadership firm–announced it has officially become a Benefit Company. Benefit Companies, like B Corps, help redefine the role of business in Canadian society by keeping
for-profit companies accountable to conduct their business in a responsible and sustainable way and promote one or more public benefits
“We’ve always been a values-based firm,” said WATSON CEO and Founder Elizabeth (Liz) Watson, QC. “We take our purpose statement, ‘to enhance the capability of our client organizations so that they can contribute positively to Canadian society and beyond,’ very seriously. Benefit Company status is our way of further formalizing our purpose and being accountable to deliver.”
WATSON has a history of supporting organizations who are committed to a more sustainable society in the areas of leadership and governance. Its client base ranges from not-for-profit organizations who serve society to public and private corporations who incorporate social conscience and environmental impact into their corporate mission. Internally, WATSON supports employees to bring their authentic selves to work, strives for a caring and equitable work environment, and matches employee contributions to charitable causes.
“We’re now more accountable for measuring our success through service to the community and not just profits.” Liz Watson added. “And we’re excited and proud to be part of the first wave of BC companies to become a Benefit Company.”
About WATSON – https://www.watsoninc.ca/
Established in 2005, WATSON has helped hundreds of organizations establish or improve their approach to governance and leadership. We are Canada’s largest multidisciplinary governance and leadership firm (with offices in Vancouver and Toronto) and work with Canadian corporations from coast to coast. We work closely with the clients in six distinct areas: recruiting director and executive talent; establishing effective governance structures and practices; guiding boards in their role in CEO and human capital oversight; elevating board and director effectiveness; and providing approachable and practical governance education and peer learning.
About Benefit Company
In June 2020 BC Finance Minister Carole James announced that B.C. has introduced historic and collaborative legislation to become the first province in Canada allowing companies to create a corporate structure that includes giving back. A benefit company is a for-profit company that commits to conducting its business in a responsible and sustainable way. British Columbia is the first Canadian jurisdiction to implement legislation to establish benefit companies.
Client Contact:
Rachel O’Connor Practice Lead | Leadership & Performance 604.283.6260 Rachel.oconnor@watsoninc.ca |
Media Contact:
Suzie Cho Practice Lead | Academy & Learning 604.283.6193 suzie@watsoninc.ca |