A board of directors, often abbreviated “board”, is an executive board that supervises the management and operation of a company, like a company or organization. The size and composition of a board could differ based on the type and laws of the business entity. The powers of a board are also mostly determined by the company’s constitution and bylaws or other governance documents. A board can have many tasks, from establishing a strategy to monitoring performance and overseeing the management personnel.
The best boards keep detailed minutes of every meeting. They assist members who are absent to catch up with the proceedings, and ensure that all duties and rules are clearly defined. They also provide a vital document of the way in which the board takes decisions.
A well-run board will have an array of qualified candidates to pick from when an open seat becomes available. The database of potential directors can help to accelerate the process of recruiting. This is especially relevant when it comes to recruiting young professionals or professionals from certain industries.
It’s no secret that the most effective and successful boards are diverse. This is reflected by age, gender and ethnicity. It also illustrates the context, expertise, and capabilities. It’s also the case that the most interesting and productive meetings are those that have diverse perspectives, which is why the core subjects of any governance education program should incorporate discussions, diversity of thought and debate.
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