Lawrence Kenwright took part in the global Ted Talk initiative in which influential people talk about their careers in business

Liverpool developer and hotel operator Lawrence Kenwright has delivered his first ever ‘Ted Talk’ on his philosophy of “entrepreneurial socialism”.

The founder of Signature Living, owner of Liverpool’s 30 James Street, Shankly and soon-to-open Dixie Dean hotels, took part in the global Ted Talk initiative in which influential people talk about their careers in business.

Addressing an audience of North West business leaders and entrepreneurs at the event in Northwich, Mr Kenwright used the platform to talk about Signature Living’s philanthropic endeavours. 

He spoke to the audience about his belief in “entrepreneurial socialism” and why successful business leaders ‘have a moral obligation to be charitable and invest in people to give them the better life chances’. 

Read more: Signature reveals opening date for Dixie Dean Hotel

In a speech that was broadcast internationally, he pointed to Signature Living’s work with homeless people in Liverpool and the annual  support he and wife, Katie Kenwright, provide for looked after children from Merseyside. 

“Imagine a country where all our companies are required to spend a certain amount of their profits on giving back to their communities,” he said.

“Merseyside, where Signature Living is primarily based, is one of the most underfunded and vulnerable regions in Britain. We do what we can to help society and do our bit to help people improve their life chances.

“We’ve invested in apprenticeship schemes and introduced a living wage. It is about giving back. All successful business leaders should do it.  Wouldn’t it be wonderful if successful business entrepreneurs could fill the void left by governments and councils? This is entrepreneurial  socialism and it is what I am guided by.”

Signature Living has recently expanded across the country with hotel developments in Cardiff, Belfast, Manchester and Preston.