The evolution of communications has attracted the attention of leaders the world over, all of whom have now recognized the fundamental value of engaging their stakeholders as part of a wider remit for better governance. As the paradigm of shareholder value-driven business shifts in favor of a softer stakeholder-driven face, communications practice has shifted too. No longer do communications practitioners and consultants cultivate the media in order to build or defend reputations, but they must now drive stakeholder primacy in their organizations in order to create a climate of healthy multi-stakeholder perceptions. Boards have come on side and yet the challenges of stakeholder management and stakeholder activism are still misunderstood.

Using groundbreaking research and unique case material, A Stake in the Future provides a practical framework for leaders to make the vital connections between leadership and civil society, between leadership and culture, between leadership and ethics, and above all, between leadership and authentic communication in an increasingly transparent and less trusted age.