Gleeds adopted the Wates Principles in 2019. This is a code for the governance of large private companies (launched in December 2018), providing a framework not only to meet legal requirements but also to promote long-term success. The requirements are set out in the Financial Reporting Council publication ‘The Wates Corporate Governance Principles for Large Private Companies’ (December 2018).

Gleeds' corporate governance report sets out the responsibilities of the non-executive Supervisory Board and the Executive Management Board.

The Supervisory Board has established stand-alone committees with discreet specialisms to support corporate governance: Audit, Finance, Remuneration, Nomination, Investment, Risk, People, Digital, Strategic Sales and Growth, ESG and Planning and Performance. These committees are chaired by members of the Supervisory Board and Executive Management Board. One of our key areas of focus is to address diversity at all levels, which includes the composition of our board and senior leadership teams.

The ESG Steering Group has responsibility for driving the ESG strategy and supports the business in delivering on its commitments. The ESG Consultation Group is drawn from the different business functions and global business units. This group represents the broader business and has developed the approach to GRI reporting, evaluating material topics, and setting up processes for UK and global monitoring.