Patagonia, one of the biggest brands in outdoor clothing, has become a world leader in responsible business. Students, local businesses and members of the community will be able to hear how they have done it when Alex Beasley, Country Manager for UK and Ireland at Patagonia Europe, comes to give a talk at the University of Winchester on 21 February.
Patagonia is an American outdoor clothing and gear retailer who aim to ‘build the best product, cause no unnecessary harm, use business to inspire and implement solutions to the environmental crisis’. Patagonia markets all its clothes as sustainable and commits to a variety of environmental and political initiatives. This includes working to reduce waste, using materials from only sustainable, traceable and organic sources and donating 10% of their annual profits to environmental groups. In 2017, the company hit the headlines for suing the United States Government and President Donald Trump for revoking protection of Bears Ears National Monument, stating that it was unlawful, dishonoured Native American culture and that the decision did not represent the will of the people.
Since joining Patagonia in 2015, Alex Beasley has been responsible for managing the brand’s wholesale business and supporting its retail and e-commerce strategy in the UK. Previous to his role, he founded Nativve, a digital marketing consultancy, and worked in a variety of sales management roles within the outdoor industry.
Dr Karen Blakeley, Head of the Centre for Responsible Management, said: “Alex is an inspirational speaker who makes responsible leadership come alive with true stories of what Patagonia are doing in the UK and Europe. Alex shows what is possible for a business to achieve if led by people throughout the business who are passionate about making a difference.”
Patagonia – Working at the Forefront of Responsible Business takes will be presented by the University of Winchester Centre for Responsible Management at 6.30pm on 21 February in the West Downs Centre, University of Winchester Business School, Romsey Road, Winchester, SO22 5HT. Refreshments are available from 6pm and the event will be followed by a light buffet and networking at 8pm. Attendance is free. Book your place here.