Director Dialogue: The Board’s Evolving Relationship With the C-Suite

In brief: Boards have increased their scope, dealing with broader and deeper agendas in such areas as strategy, talent, and technology while overseeing a growing portfolio of risks. The complex environment in which boards now operate can leave directors wondering when to lean in and when to stay out of management’s way. In 2015, NACD and RSM hosted a series of roundtables that convened about 40 directors of public and private companies to discuss hindrances and effective practices for engaging with management. Those directors’ lessons learned are included in this Director Dialogue paper.

Most relevant audiences: Board members of public, private, and nonprofit organizations; nominating and governance committee members.