My year as Lady Mayor showed me why representation matters

As only the third woman to hold this office, this year has taught me the importance of representation, writes Lady Mayor Susan Langley When I walked through the doors of Mansion House almost a year ago, I knew I was taking on an extraordinary role. It’s been a year that has taken me around the globe and reinforced my belief in the fundamental strengths of this country. Wherever I’ve travelled, I’ve been struck by the respect and admiration for British business. But I’ve also witnessed global financial centres moving at breathtaking speed. Competing fiercely for investment and talent. Harnessing revolutionary technologies. Sweeping away barriers and creating environments where enterprise and innovation can flourish. And they are not waiting for us. Yet Britain has an extraordinary hand to play. World-class universities, exceptional talent, a legal system respected across the globe, institutions that inspire trust, innovation embedded in our very DNA and, of course, one of the o