Leonardo UK: A Blueprint for Inclusive Growth and Community Empowerment
In an era where technological advancements and innovation are driving societal transformation, it is vital for leading companies to assume roles that go beyond economic contributions. Leonardo, one of the UK’s leading companies in the defence and aerospace sectors, exemplifies this broader responsibility.
The release of the 2024 Oxford Economics Report highlights Leonardo’s substantial economic influence— sustaining over 32,000 jobs and contributing £2.5 billion to the UK’s GDP. Yet, the true depth of Leonardo’s impact lies in its unwavering commitment to fostering inclusive growth and empowering communities.
As a leading member of the Purpose Coalition and its Breaking Down Barriers Commission, Leonardo has joined the front line of efforts to dismantle barriers to opportunity across all levels of society. These initiatives are central to Leonardo’s ethos, reflecting its commitment to inclusivity and diversity. Through the Purpose Coalition, a consortium of purpose-led organisations, Leonardo aligns its business strategies with the Purpose Goals, ensuring that its growth is not only economically robust but also socially responsible and sustainable.
Rt Hon Justine Greening, Chair of the Purpose Coalition, added, “Leonardo is setting a high standard for how businesses can drive not just economic success, but also real social impact. Their commitment to breaking down barriers and creating opportunities for all is exactly the kind of leadership we need in today’s world. What truly sets Leonardo apart is their understanding that inclusivity and diversity are not just about fulfilling obligations or ticking boxes—they are about unlocking the full potential of our society. By investing in people from all walks of life and ensuring that everyone, regardless of their background, has a fair chance to succeed, Leonardo is making a profound and lasting impact.”
The Breaking Down Barriers Commission, a key initiative within the Purpose Coalition led by former Member of Keir Starmer’s Shadow Cabinet, Nick Forbes CBE, focuses on removing obstacles that hinder access to opportunity. By advocating for equity, diversity, and inclusion, Leonardo is not only cultivating a more dynamic and innovative workforce but is also ensuring that the benefits of its success are widely shared across society. This extends beyond the company itself to its UK-wide supply chain, with analysis by Leonardo showing that £74 million of the company’s procurement spending in 2023 was in the UK’s 20% most deprived postcodes, roughly a third of which was with SMEs.
Clive Higgins, Chair and CEO of Leonardo UK, reinforced this vision, stating, “At Leonardo, we believe that our success is inextricably linked to the success of our people and the communities we serve. Through our work with the Purpose Coalition, we are committed to creating a future where everyone can thrive, regardless of their background. This includes bringing high value employment and skills to some of the least advantaged areas of the UK. In return, we are able to access a pipeline of diverse talent that will let us continue to innovate and grow our business.”
Leonardo’s commitment to talent development and community engagement is evident in its holistic approach to creating an inclusive workplace where individuals from all backgrounds can excel. By investing in apprenticeships, STEM education and partnerships with educational institutions, Leonardo is nurturing the next generation of talent. In 2023 the company had more than 700 people on early careers schemes, including 310 graduate trainees, 360 apprentices, and 60 industrial placement students. This focus on skills development and education is a key element in bridging the skills gap and opening doors for underrepresented groups to enter high-value careers.
Beyond its economic contributions, Leonardo’s involvement in local communities extends beyond job creation and up-skilling to include building relationships, investing in local infrastructure, and supporting education. Such a comprehensive approach ensures that the company’s positive impact resonates not just within its walls but across the UK.
In a climate where businesses are increasingly scrutinized for their societal roles, Leonardo stands out as a model of responsible leadership. The company’s dedication to economic growth is matched by its commitment to social progress, demonstrating that it is possible to achieve business success while making a meaningful difference in people’s lives.
