The Board encourages and seeks to build up a mutual understanding of objectives between the Group and its institutional share holders. As part of this process, the Non-Executive Chairman, Chief Executive, Group Finance Director and Joint Chief Operating Officers make regular presentations and Meet with institutional shareholders to discuss any issues of concern, to obtain feedback and to consider Corporate Governance issues. All the Non-Executive Directors are available to meet with shareholders to understand their views more fully. The Non-Executive Chairman and the Senior Non-Executive Director are personally available to the significant shareholders in the Group.
The Corporate Communications team has effective day-to-day responsibility for managing shareholder communications and always acts in close consultation with the Board. A Disclosure Committee consisting of the Corporate Communications Director, Chief Executive and Group Finance Director ensure all appropriate communications are made to the London Stock Exchange and shareholders. Shareholders can also access up-to-date information through the investor centre section of the Group’s website. A telephone helpline, 0871 664 0300, provides a contact point directly to The Group’s registrars.
All members of the Board, including Non-Executive Directors, receive a report on any significant discussions with shareholders and the feedback that follows the annual and half-yearly presentations to investment analysts and shareholders is also circulated. All brokers’ reports and analysts’ briefings are circulated to Directors.
The Board encourages shareholders to attend its Annual General Meeting. Directors, including the chairmen of the various committees, are present to answer any questions. The Group uses the Annual General Meeting to communicate with private investors and encourages their participation.
Social and environmental responsibility
Details of how the Group manages its social and environmental responsibilities can be found in Undertaking socially responsible business practices.