The Cadbury Report was a landmark in UK corporate governance, highlighting the need for transparency, accountability, and robust board structures. Audit committees and the separation of chairman and CEO roles were key recommendations.
Auditors’ roles were emphasised as independent overseers of financial reporting, providing stakeholders with confidence in the integrity of accounts.
Its principles quickly became a benchmark, improving accountability and risk management across UK companies. International governance codes were also influenced by its recommendations.
The report remains a cornerstone of corporate governance, demonstrating how ethical oversight and transparency support investor trust.
