We at ESU Scotland were very excited at being given the opportunity to host the last World Members’ Conference in Edinburgh in September 2008. Over 250 delegates from 31 countries attended.
Baillie Gifford is delighted to be sponsoring the English-Speaking
Union’s John Smith Memorial Mace. This renowned
debating prize promotes the effective use of English in international
communications and increases cultural awareness through improved
understanding of current affairs and differing cultural perspectives.
In any team environment people will have different opinions
and debating allows all options to be explored. Many companies look to
recruit people with debating skill, the ability to construct a
persuasive argument, the confidence to speak in front of others and the
flexibility to be able to think on their feet. This contest plays an
important role in encouraging students to get involved in debating and
the skills they learn could benefit them hugely in later life. We wish
all contestants the very best of luck.
Baillie Gifford is an independent investment management firm currently
managing over £50 billion worth of client funds. We manage
investments globally for pension funds, institutions, charities and
retail investors. The company is wholly owned by its 30 working
partners and is committed to remaining independent. Recent
years have witnessed significant business development through organic
growth without the need for merger or acquisition.
