Johnny was invited to be a keynote speaker at this year’s Cranfield VentureDay.
Now in its 17th year, VentureDay, Cranfield University’s annual entrepreneurship conference, brought together key stakeholders in the entrepreneurial ecosystem for a day of learning and networking.
This year’s theme considered how people, finance and strategy are key components for sustainable business success. There were a number of speakers from across various industries.
Johnny, who won Cranfield School of Management’s 2025 Entrepreneur Alumni Award and was praised for his ‘deep commitment to sustainability and innovation’, gave the keynote address about the importance of long-termism as a mindset.
Professor Stephanie Hussels, Group Head: Strategy, Entrepreneurship and Sustainability, and Director of the Business Growth Programme, said: “We were delighted to welcome back Dr Johnny Wake, a Cranfield BGP alumnus, as our keynote speaker at VentureDay 2025.
“His talk “Courteenhall: Long-termism as a Mindset” offered a compelling reflection on stewardship, sustainability, and value-driven leadership in today’s fast-paced world.
“What was truly inspiring was Johnny’s ability to build the estate around three enduring pillars: financial, environmental, and community sustainability.
“His thoughtful approach shows that long-term value is created by balancing commercial success with care for people and the planet.
“Thank you for reminding us that patience, principle, and perspective are powerful drivers of sustainable growth.”
Cranfield School of Management is one of the world’s most influential business schools, with a heritage of nurturing leaders in management and technology. Since the 1950s, it has been at the forefront of education and research, transforming knowledge into action and enhancing the practice of management worldwide.
As part of Cranfield University, its School of Management uniquely bridges leadership and technology, delivering cutting-edge management thought leadership that inspires change and innovation.
Its awards honour alumni who exemplify their values, make significant contributions to their organisations, communities, and the alumni community, and who serve as role models and inspire all those who strive to make a meaningful impact in business and society.
https://cranfield.shorthandstories.com/ventureday-2025/index.html
