On Being a Lasallian Business Leader

In today's discussion, we have discussed the role of a Lasallian business leader. As future managers, presidents and CEO of various organization, we should not forget our roots and values when it comes into making decisions specially during times when there are ethical concerns at hand. I have read an article about a talk of one of the most influential business person in the country, Mr. Manny Pangilinan. In his talk, he emphasizes the importance of ethics and good governance in business. He said that these two things differentiate a world class firm from those that are not. 

I would like to connect the link in Mr. Pangilinan's talk, our class discussion and our reading material which is the Vocation of the Business leader into my writing. First, as mentioned in the Vocation of the Business Leader, the critical part of a person's formation of beliefs, values and purpose of business is his or her education which I believe is true. As mentioned by Mr. Pangilinan, a person's values should be embedded from his childhood. I also remembered that our Professor also mentioned that there was a study made on students who came from sectarian and non-sectarian schools and the results showed that those students who took up religion, values and catholic church teachings proved to be more successful in their careers and on businesses.

The second point I would like to highlight is the importance of ethical and spiritual formation compared to our technical skills which was boldly highlighted in the article. We have also discussed the implications of people who have led large companies based on technical skills but later on had to fall due to ethical reasons. One such company is Enron and more recent is Lehman Brothers. Mr. Pangilinan also pointed out the importance of ethics and good governance in his talk. He said that "Present-day financial markets determine which companies are good, and which are not – equity markets will price your shares impartially. Debt markets will price your loans objectively. if you want market acceptance, then you must perform well, and do it honestly. It’s as simple as that." He cited samples where he and his company had to make ethical choices and in the end had paid off.

Lastly, I would like to emphasize that business leaders should be encouraged to see their work as a vocation and a response to God's call for service. Also, these leaders should act as leaders who are serving God, looking after the welfare of the whole organization and not only on the bottom line. 

In closing, as Lasallian Business Leaders, we should do our part and act as agents of change in the current business environment. I always believe that by embedding ethical and spiritual values in business, it will pay off in ways where money cannot compensate. I believe that Lasallian Business Leaders should exemplify a business with a heart.