Sacha Romanovitch is a visionary who set out to reshape a traditional organisation for a new world (City to lose first female boss of major accountancy firm, 16 October). Her initiatives – such as the Vibrant Economy programme, capping her own pay, and introducing a profit-sharing scheme for all staff – were bold moves that spoke to the future role of business in society.
Profits and social responsibility are not mutually exclusive. Research shows that the ethical treatment of workers is associated with 2%-3% higher stock returns per year; 85% of millennials, who will comprise 75% of the global workforce by 2025, say they want to work for a company who put purpose at the centre of business. Sacha was right to put meaningful social purpose at the heart of the organisation in order to attract new employees and clients, and such innovation is something we champion at Nesta. But, clearly, for some this is a step too far towards revolution. Sacha still has a bright future ahead, and history will remember her as one of the UK’s most important and inspiring business leaders.
Kate Sutton
Head of corporate social innovation, Nesta
Regarding your report (18 October) on the growing numbers of electric guitar sales to women and girls, and the accompanying list of “inspiring female guitarists”, mention should be made of Annie Clark, aka St Vincent. Frank Zappa said you didn’t listen to a Jimi Hendrix guitar solo, “it ate you alive”. Clark’s guitar work has been described as “like the Loch Ness monster giving birth inside a silo”. She shares with Zappa both the ability to find striking dissonant notes and creative use of the effects pedal, as well as having her own highly individual, hugely impressive style. What a feminist role model she is.
Andy Moorhouse
Barnard Castle, Co Durham
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