In an era where social impact is more important than ever, Graeme Hodge stands out as a passionate advocate for ethical practices and social justice. As the Managing Director of Ethical Good, Graeme is passionate about fighting modern slavery and human trafficking. His involvement in local, national, and international initiatives has not only sparked a movement but has also resulted in significant legislative changes and vital support for victims.
Join us as we explore Graeme’s insights on the power of collaboration, the importance of empathy in leadership, and the values that drive his relentless pursuit of a fairer world. His journey serves as a powerful reminder that each of us has the capacity to create meaningful change in our communities and beyond.
What is the biggest thing you have done to create or improve social impact?
Probably my work in the space of anti-human trafficking. I was privileged to be a driving participant in local, national and international initiatives that kick-started a movement of action and activism. It has led to vital UK legislation, a change in the way victims of trafficking are cared for and supported, changes to commercial sourcing and practice, and raised hundreds of thousands of pounds for local, national and international work and interventions against the issue. Modern day slavery is a scourge on humanity and something I still care deeply about. It is far more present than most people realise, in the things we buy, the services we use and the communities we live in. It’s an issue that has profound social impact on people all around the world, and one that we need to continue to fight against, knowing that collaborative effort can genuinely bring change.
If you were the Prime Minister, how would you improve the UK for everyone?
I’m not sure I would want to be Prime Minister, but if I was, I would focus on equity, empathy and compassion. So much of government action, and society’s ‘modus operandi’ is based around self-interest. We need a new approach to economics, one that doesn’t focus on growth as the only measure of success. Rather a system that focuses on enough, for everyone, for nature, for the global community. I think if we embraced the idea of ‘enoughness’ we would see more equity across all issues, more empathic action and a fundamental default of compassion for our fellow humanity.
What is the most significant work lesson you want to share with others so they can benefit from your experience?
Being grounded and agreed on the values of the work you do, or organisation you work for is essential. If those operating principles aren’t enshrined in our strategy, relationships and culture, division and unhealthy conflict can ensue. At the centre of that is also a core belief that is diversity – of all things: experience; personality; opinion; faith, physicality and ethnicity; ability; sexuality; skills and passion – makes us richer as a work community. When those things are in place, teams work really well together.
Can you share some key milestones or proudest moments in your career?
There have been a few but some standouts were definitely working for the Sydney Organising Committee for the Olympic Games back in 2000, raising £130,000 in one weekend for anti-trafficking work at an event I organised, visiting communities in majority world countries that had benefited from our international development partnerships, and a number of gatherings of people from various movements I helped enable. These are all key moments and milestones I am really proud of. But beyond anything else, I am proudest of my family, the amazing woman I am married to and the two phenomenal girls we raise together.
What is your most embarrassing moment at work?
Tough one, probably because there have been so many over the years! I know I have made many mistakes over the years and more than my fair share of ‘faux pas’! One that comes to mind is hastily entering a lift, before an event was about to start, and subsequently running into a famous news anchor who was carrying a plate of cheese and crackers and chutney. She also happened to be the host of the event that was about to start! She had to get changed quickly because her blazer was covered in chutney, cheese, and crackers from the run in. She was understandably not entirely happy about the situation!
What is the thing that brings you the most #workkjoy?
Time with team and moments where we are able to spend concentrated time on creative development or giving real value to our clients, particularly through consulting.
What is one of your pet hates at work? And why?
Expenses. Always has been and probably always will be. Just the dull admin and necessary documenting and accounting of receipts is never enjoyable. It used to be much worse before clever apps that help you out – especially when I was dealing with multiple currency expenses!
Who or what inspires you to continue pushing the boundaries of ethical and impact-driven business practices?
I love the work of thought leaders like Adam Grant and Simon Sinek, but on a day to day basis – it is probably the team of talented and experienced associates and core staff that spur me on the most.
What is your favourite quote that you would like us to include?
“We seek for tomorrow, by acting today, until this world is as it was always meant to be.” – Joel McKerrow, For Tomorrow
I love this quote because it conveys the sense of restoration work we are all called to participate in. Restoring people and planet back to an inherently pure and beautiful utopian existence. I love the idea that we are all able to act each day to do something to see our planet and people return to wholeness and flourishing. It is a quote full of hope and expectation and drives me everyday as I try to live my life in that way.