Chairman's foreword

There are many questions currently being raised about the governance and effectiveness of public company boards. Delivering sustainable value depends on the trust and confidence of all our stakeholders, and this can only be earned by conducting our business responsibly.

 

Although, with the assistance of the Company Secretary, I lead the governance process, it is a matter which is reserved to the whole board for consideration. The board comprises a team of experienced individuals with the complementary skills and knowledge necessary to carry out these duties effectively and to thereby earn the respect of all stakeholders.

 

At Berendsen, we do not view governance as a separate compliance exercise but the method by which we manage the group. By doing so, I believe that the board and the company are well placed to face the challenges arising from the current economic environment. Good governance practices need to be developed over time. We aim to be at the forefront of best practice in order to deliver the company's strategy and, by doing so, promote the success of the business for the benefit of shareholders. During 2010, we were pleased to see our expertise and approach recognised at the ICSA Transparency in Governance Awards. Not only was the company named the winner of the ‘Best risk management disclosure' category, but we were also shortlisted in the FTSE 250 category for ‘Best board disclosure'.

 

It is the board's view that the company has complied fully with the provisions in Section 1 of the Combined Code of Corporate Governance in 2010. To find out more about our compliance, please see the Corporate governance statement in our 2009 Report and Accounts.

 

 

Christopher Kemball

Chairman