Event summary

• Coutts' new report, Face Value: Your Reputation as a Business Asset, was launched to 200 entrepreneurs on 21 February
• The report’s author Michael Hayman, Chief Executive, The Communication Group, presented the key findings that argued the case that entrepreneurs and business leaders need to recognise that their own reputation carries a very real 'face value' and it is a crucial part of the reputational armoury of their business
• The Rt Hon the Lord Heseltine gave the key note address, providing attendees with an insight into his views on reputation management. He outlined some of his earliest commercial experiences and gave valuable advice to entrepreneurs today

Nick Gornall, Head of Entrepreneurs and Southern region clients for Coutts & Co, launched the report by providing the background to Coutts' involvement at this exclusive event. Through its work with many of the UK’s top business leaders, Coutts understands that reputation and the protection of it, is now not just the preserve of big companies but also of individuals.

Michael Hayman, Chief Executive of The Communication Group plc and the report's author, presented the key findings. He highlighted that Britain's business are currently experiencing a great era for reputations, but predicted that 2008 will be the year that business leaders need to see themselves as brands in order to improve their company's performance.

Report contributor and YouGov President, Peter Kellner, provided a personal introduction of the keynote speaker, The Rt Hon the Lord Heseltine. Peter noted that Lord Heseltine is one of very few people who has been immensely successful in both business and politics. As such he is ideally placed to provide an insight into his thoughts on the problems, opportunities and risks of reputation.

Lord Heseltine described several of his earliest commercial experiences and successes. He described how the pressures on businesses today from the outside and from non-commercial sources are intense. Lord Heseltine believes the reputation of his company has undoubtedly helped - "people have heard of us - taking care and knowing that when people mention the name of the company there will be a sympathetic ear, has been a huge asset".

The keynote speech was followed by a lively Q&A session chaired by Peter Kellner and the evening ended with an opportunity for entrepreneurs to network with like-minded individuals and discuss their own business ventures and the challenges and achievements associated with them.