Perhaps one of the most defining moments in the history of Johnson & Johnson occurred more than 70 years ago when General Robert Wood Johnson, son of one of the Company’s co-founders, wrote Our Credo, outlining our responsibilities to all stakeholders and to the communities in which we live and work. It was 1943, a time when very few even understood or appreciated the importance of corporate responsibility in serving the needs of many groups and contributing to the long-term vitality of a business. This 308-word document has stood the test of time and continues to serve as the guide we try to live by every day. And, it is the essence of what citizenship and sustainability means for Johnson & Johnson.
We see our citizenship and sustainability as more than our social, environmental and economic performance. It is who we are and how we act. Our new Citizenship & Sustainability Annual Report gives us the opportunity to share with our diverse stakeholders the ways we are:
- Working and partnering with others to advance human health and well-being,
- Helping to safeguard the planet, and
- Leading a dynamic and growing business responsibly.
We live in a time where health care is one of the biggest challenges facing society – no other issue is as important or personal. As the world’s largest health care company, we have a responsibility to lead and partner to make significant impact as we continue pursuing our aspiration to help billions of people around the world live longer, healthier and happier lives.
We realize the work we do doesn’t just impact the business and society – it also inspires others to pay it forward. One example of this is reflected in the story of Dr. Dalene von Delft from South Africa who, in 2010, developed a dry cough that just wouldn’t go away. Tests confirmed her fear that she had contracted multi drug-resistant tuberculosis (TB). Through an early access program, also commonly referred to as a compassionate use program, she was able to receive our medicine, bedaquiline (trade named SIRTURO® in the U.S.), as part of her treatment. Following an 18-month, multi-drug treatment regimen, Dr. von Delft was cured. Inspired by her experience, she founded TB Proof, an organization dedicated to bringing awareness of TB among health care workers in South Africa.
The commitment our Company has made in seeking out the best research and development to produce the most effective treatments for these kinds of needs is one of the many aspects of our citizenship and sustainability. It’s knowing that our decisions and actions, no matter in what area of our Company, can influence so much more. Read the report.
Shaun Mickus is Director, Corporate Citizenship at Johnson & Johnson. He works with senior leaders to drive the company’s Citizenship & Sustainability strategy and to ensure implementation across a broad range of corporate responsibility initiatives. He brings more than 20 years of business experience across multiple disciplines, brands and corporate initiatives. Additional information about Shaun can be found here.
