Board 2015 - The Board of Directors as a Competitive Advantage
To fulfill their responsibilities in this ever‐changing environment, 21st century boards realize they must abandon inadequate 20th century practices. Twenty‐first century boards have some distinctive new expectations that call for the board and chief executive officer to genuinely engage in the complex dynamic of collaboration and oversight. Though addressing a different issue, President Ronald Reagan may have said it best, “Trust but verify.” Boards and CEOs have distinctive roles yet mutual responsibilities. Boards and CEOs must trust and collaborate with each other. The CEO must execute. The board must oversee. Boards that manage undermine their oversight role.