Mike Barry

Mike Barry is a former Director at Marks & Spencer (M&S) and played a pivotal role in the development of the company's Plan A, a comprehensive 100-point, 5-year strategy aimed at addressing a broad spectrum of environmental and social issues. He provided the vision and momentum necessary to foster change and lead a robust approach to sustainability throughout the organization. Barry was instrumental in setting up and managing Plan A, which not only delivered £750 million in business benefits over a decade but also achieved carbon neutrality for M&S.

His career is marked by significant contributions across various sectors, especially in sustainability. Barry divides his professional life into distinct phases: understanding and integrating stakeholder expectations into M&S’s corporate strategy; overseeing the deployment of sustainable products and business practices across stores, business units, and suppliers; and effectively communicating the company's sustainability accomplishments both internally and externally. In addition to his role at M&S, he operates a consultancy named Mikebarryeco, specializing in startup growth, business transformation, and sustainable leadership. His extensive experience includes working with startups, think tanks, charities, and international firms to enhance trust, partnerships, and dialogue.

In recognition of his achievements, Barry was named the Sustainable Business Innovator of 2011 by The Guardian Group. He has also served on the boards of the World Wildlife Fund and the World Environment Center, enhancing governance structures and sustainability frameworks globally. A noted public speaker, Barry has delivered engaging keynotes at various prestigious platforms, including TEDxWWF, where he presented "A Manifesto for a Sustainable Business Revolution." His insights into market opportunities, governance, and sustainable business practices have left a lasting impact on audiences worldwide. Barry, a chemistry graduate from Sheffield University, has maintained a practical, quick, and insightful advisory role, contributing significantly to sustainability strategies for entities like Grosvenor Britain & Ireland and Unilever’s Homecare Division, even managing successful remote work during the Covid pandemic.