Fifty years ago society’s reverence for the professional classes was almost a given, but those days are gone. Restrictive practices and a reluctance to accept reform have contributed to a loss of public trust and respect. Lawyers and doctors don’t stand on the pedestal they once did. When companies such as BHS and Carillion go down, for example, blame is often placed on accountants – professional accreditations notwithstanding.That professions have moved with the times is not in any doubt, however, in their embrace of the market (along with its often high rewards), have the professions now opened themselves to criticism previously levelled at mere business people?

Jericho Conversations is one of a number of initiatives that spontaneously emerged during the first COVID lockdown – part of a determination to use moments of crisis to pivot towards a better, fairer, more equitable and sustainable future for all. By popular demand, we have reignited the series to help find surprising and refreshing solutions and insights into a world in constant flux. Each conversation – led by an expert speaker – is designed to keep Jericho communities engaged and thinking about “what comes next?” for business and society.