Kind Business
Can you imagine a world where corporations prioritise society's wellbeing alongside investor returns?
In Kind Business: Values Create Value Dr David Cooke journeys through the evolution of commerce, from its humble origins to the complex corporate structures of today. Kind Business scrutinises contemporary boardroom decisions, challenging the status quo and advocating for change.
This book exposes the flaws of profit-driven business practices that are focussed on short-term returns which overshadow long-term sustainability. Dr Cooke contends that the root cause lies in leadership failure, where decisions neglect the broader stakeholder ecosystem.
But there is hope. Kind Business offers a blueprint for a new era of corporate responsibility, emphasising the integration of people and planet into leadership strategies. By spotlighting visionary leaders and exemplifying purpose-driven initiatives, Dr Cooke demonstrates how businesses can thrive by enriching society and nurturing investor interests.
Embrace a future where values create value, where businesses do well by doing good. Can you imagine such a world? Kind Business shows us that it's not only possible but imperative for a sustainable future.
The Audiobook is available to purchase via the “Audiobook” tab on the header bar of this web site.
Alternatively placing this link into a search engine: https://awesound.com/a/kind-business
The physical book is available to order now in Australia through your local bookstore. It is warehoused in Sydney and distributed by Woodslane. It can also be ordered via the Woodslane web site: https://www.woodslane.com.au/book/9781923225015/Kind-Business
Online it can also be ordered as a print on demand (POD) book via online booksellers globally and can be downloaded as an e-book from most sites globally.
Kind words of endorsement for this book
“Can business be both kind and profitable? David Cooke's 'Kind Business' answers with a resounding yes. This powerful book bridges the gap between commercial success and compassionate leadership, serving as a roadmap for anyone ready to challenge the status quo and lead with heart. David's exceptional leadership in promoting these values sets a much-needed example for current and future leaders who dare to achieve sustainable profit without forgoing core values of empathy, decency, and kindness towards people and the planet. David’s approach stands as a cornerstone for the future of ethical business practices—making it essential reading for visionary leaders.”
Cassandra Kelly - Member European Union Global Tech Panel.
“David would be in the top draw of Australian business leaders who have led profitable businesses with strong compassion and purpose. I am pleased he is taking the opportunity to reflect on his career and share with us many of his lifelong learnings.”
Tony Stuart – CEO, UNICEF Australia
“One of the most compelling and complete books on business, culture and sustainable performance available. This book is a must for any business leader looking to realise the benefits of a fully integrated approach to ESG.”
Alison Cameron – International Leadership Coach, author New Millenium Leadership
“This book is a refreshing antidote to growing distrust in business. David Cooke shows by powerful example how companies can do well when leaders have the courage to do good.”
Narelle Hooper – Non-executive Director The Ethics Centre, former Editor AFR BOSS and former Editor-in-Chief Company Director magazine
"Business as usual has put us on the road to ruin. If we are to rein in climate change and yawning inequality, then we need an alternative approach that doesn't put profit ahead of people and the planet. Dr David Cooke mounts a compelling case for kind business practices. He presents a wealth of evidence to show that if corporate leaders followed his advice, then they would lead happier and more fulfilling lives — and so would the rest of us."
Peter Mares, Moderator, Cranlana Centre for Ethical Leadership, author of No Place Like Home: Repairing Australia's Housing Crisis
“Dr David Cooke remains one of the most forward thinkers in how we can restructure capitalism in a manner that prioritises kindness to provide better outcomes for people and planet. I strongly recommend this book to anyone currently leading, or having aspirations to lead a business, and particularly to those who have the courage to take the lessons Dr Cooke offers into the real world to enable our society to be net positive and thrive."
Kylie Porter, Chief Sustainability Officer, and Business Ethics Fellow
“Written by a true purpose-leader and impact-enabler, Kind Business will shake up the corporate world and shift paradigms on how things are done and how they should be done. It will inspire businesses to embed kindness when our world needs it the most.”
Professor Debbie Haski-Leventhal - Author of Make it Meaningful
"In a world still dominated by 'greed is good,' Cooke challenges the status quo, asserting that profit and purpose can coexist. With compelling examples from corporate Australia, he advocates for a shift from shareholder primacy to stakeholder inclusion, redefining leadership with moral courage and empathy for a more sustainable future."
Susan Mizrahi - Sustainability Thought Leader & Strategist, Non-executive Director UN Global Compact Network Australia
“Far too many people follow Friedman’s mantra that the only social responsibility of a business is to increase its profits, rashly ignoring his commentary on long-run interests earlier in the article in question. Unsurprisingly, many businesses have been decimated by a myopic focus on near-term results.
David's timely book is part a cautionary tale of the grave perils of relentless short-termism, and inspiration for leaders looking to ensure their businesses thrive in the decade ahead. Even better, they will enjoy a much happier working environment along the way and be able to look the next generation in the eye when explaining the secrets of their success.”
Nigel Lake – Founder and Executive Chair Pottinger, Author The Long Term Starts Tomorrow