The Board Curators

As AI and emerging technologies continue to reshape industries, boards have a critical role in overseeing how companies integrate these powerful tools. It’s no longer just about driving innovation; it’s about ensuring that the risks associated with AI—whether cybersecurity, ethical concerns, or data privacy—are effectively managed. “From my own experience in leading technology-driven transformations, I’ve seen firsthand how important it is for boards to have the right expertise to navigate this rapidly changing landscape. Boards that understand the potential of AI and other emerging technologies are better equipped to ask the right questions and make strategic decisions that drive long-term success,” says Daphne E. Jones, Founder of The Board Curators. The question for today’s leaders is: Does your board have the right mix of skills to oversee AI integration while mitigating the risks? Are we, as leaders, keeping pace with these technological advancements to truly govern effectively? At The Board Curators, we prepare executives to step confidently into these discussions and ensure they’re board-ready in a tech-driven world. Daphne E. Jones Nichelle Maynard-Elliott Bradley Strock Dr. Antoinette (Tonie) Leatherberry, Ed.D. Teri G. Fontenot #AI #CorporateGovernance #BoardLeadership #EmergingTechnologies #TechRisk #TheBoardCurators #Cybersecurity #StrategicLeadership #DaphneJones

The landscape of corporate governance and regulatory compliance continues to evolve, and it’s not just public companies that need to pay attention. At The Board Curators, we believe that executives seeking board positions must stay ahead of these developments, especially as industries like alternative asset management face increasing scrutiny. The Managed Funds Association's (MFA) recent leadership transition highlights the importance of strategic planning and board oversight as organizations navigate regulatory challenges and potential tax changes. Strong, forward-thinking leadership is essential for tackling the complexities of modern governance. The MFA, representing $3.2 trillion in assets, has named Jody Gunderson of AB CarVal as its new chair while preparing for risks of higher taxes and new regulations, particularly as the U.S. nears its 2024 presidential election. Already, the MFA has scored regulatory victories, but continues to fight new SEC rules that could impact private funds, short-selling transparency, and cybersecurity policies. These issues reflect broader governance challenges that require boards to be agile, informed, and proactive in shaping their company’s future. As you consider your next steps toward a board position, it's crucial to understand how regulatory changes and governance strategies intersect. What steps can boards take to ensure they are prepared to navigate the shifting regulatory landscape and protect shareholder interests? Read the full article by Carolina Mandl at Reuters:?https://lnkd.in/eekghRAz. Daphne E. Jones Nichelle Maynard-Elliott Bradley Strock Teri G. Fontenot Dr. Antoinette (Tonie) Leatherberry, Ed.D. #CorporateGovernance #Regulations #BoardLeadership #Finance #MFA #TheBoardCurators #GovernanceTrends #ExecutiveLeadership

The landscape of shareholder activism is changing, with "occasional activists" – institutional investors, individuals, and even company insiders – taking on a more significant role in influencing corporate governance. According to a recent article from MoFo.com, the number of activist campaigns in 2024 is on track to exceed the record levels seen in 2022 and 2023. In the first half of this year alone, 147 campaigns have already been launched, indicating that activism is no longer just for dedicated funds. What’s interesting is that more first-time activists and company insiders are using their influence to push for changes, from submitting shareholder proposals to launching proxy contests. This rise in occasional activism reflects a democratization of shareholder engagement, where even those without a history of activism are now shaping the direction of corporations. One notable trend is the impact of the SEC's universal proxy card (UPC) rules, which allow shareholders to pick nominees from competing slates. These rules have not only doubled the number of founder proxy fights but have also sped up the settlement process, with the median time to settle dropping to 73 days in 2024. The rise of occasional activism signifies a new era where diverse voices have a say in corporate governance, making it more important than ever for companies to stay engaged and responsive to shareholder concerns. ?? What do you think? How will this shift toward occasional activism impact corporate decision-making and the future of governance? For the full article and more insights, check out the original post on MoFo.com: https://lnkd.in/e_ar9CQp. On November 25th, our CEO and founder Daphne E. Jones will be speaking on a panel at PLI's Twenty-Second Annual Directors' Institute on Corporate Governance discussing: Governance and Shareholder Activism. She will be sharing her perspectives on things like universal proxy implementation, current trends in shareholder activism and much more! #CorporateGovernance #ShareholderActivism #BoardLeadership #UniversalProxyCard #OccasionalActivists #TheBoardCurators #CorporateStrategy #InvestorRelations

Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month at The Board Curators! ?? As we honor Hispanic Heritage Month, we take this opportunity to celebrate the incredible contributions, diverse perspectives, and rich culture that Hispanic and Latino communities bring to the world of business and corporate leadership. Representation and diversity in the boardroom are more than just values—they are catalysts for innovation, creativity, and meaningful change. By embracing different voices, experiences, and cultures, we create stronger, more dynamic boards that drive organizations forward. At The Board Curators, we're committed to championing the growth of Hispanic and Latino leaders in board positions, ensuring that their talents and insights are recognized, valued, and given the space to flourish. We believe that diverse leadership is not only a reflection of our society but also a key driver of success in today’s competitive landscape. This month, let's celebrate the achievements and contributions of Hispanic and Latino professionals and continue to support efforts to enhance diversity and inclusion in boardrooms across the globe. ?Adelante! Daphne E. Jones Nichelle Maynard-Elliott Bradley Strock Dr. Antoinette (Tonie) Leatherberry, Ed.D. Teri G. Fontenot #HispanicHeritageMonth #DiversityAndInclusion #BoardLeadership #CorporateGovernance #LatinoLeaders #TheBoardCurators #RepresentationMatters #CelebrateDiversity

Major Shakeup at 23andMe: What It Means for Corporate Governance and Leadership In a surprising turn of events, all seven of 23andMe's independent directors have resigned, highlighting significant challenges for the genetic-testing company. This move comes amid ongoing negotiations with CEO and co-founder Anne Wojcicki, who seeks to take the company private. According to CBS News, the directors stepped down after months of waiting for a "fully financed, fully diligenced, actionable proposal" from Wojcicki, stating that their departure was due to a "clear" difference of opinion on the company's future. Wojcicki holds a concentrated voting power of 49%, which ultimately influenced their decision. Wojcicki responded by expressing her surprise and disappointment but reiterated that taking 23andMe private would allow it to focus on long-term growth, away from the pressures of the public market. The company has faced financial struggles since going public in 2021, reporting a staggering $667 million net loss in the last fiscal year and seeing its stock price plummet by over 97%. This story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of board independence and strong governance, especially in times of crisis or major transitions. It raises crucial questions about the balance of power between CEOs and board members and how that dynamic can impact a company’s future. ?? What are your thoughts? How can companies ensure balanced decision-making when one individual holds a significant amount of control? What steps should 23andMe take next to restore confidence in its leadership and direction? How impactful is taking a company private so it can restructure or revamp its strategy? For more details on this developing story, read the full article by CBS News: 23andMe Directors Resign Amid Push to Go Private https://lnkd.in/eG9Z_wb5 Daphne E. Jones Nichelle Maynard-Elliott Teri G. Fontenot Bradley Strock Dr. Antoinette (Tonie) Leatherberry, Ed.D. #CorporateGovernance #BoardLeadership #BusinessStrategy #LeadershipChallenges #CorporateTransparency #23andMe #BoardResignations #LeadershipLessons #TheBoardCurators

Corporate training is more than just skill development—it's a pathway to fostering innovation, enhancing productivity, and driving overall success. By investing in your team's growth, you're not only nurturing talent but also building a culture of continuous learning that empowers your workforce to thrive in today’s competitive landscape. Ready to learn more? Visit the resources tab on our website to explore our latest article on why investing in employee development is the key to unlocking your organization's full potential. And here’s an exciting opportunity: Discover one of our flagship offerings, The Board Curators Live! This comprehensive program is designed specifically for companies or groups, featuring four in-depth modules delivered in a classroom format, available both virtually and in person for class sizes ranging from 10 to 20 participants. What makes this program truly unique? It’s led by experienced board members who also serve as Concierges LIVE!, tailoring each session to your organization's specific needs. The Board Curators Live offers instructor-led presentations, engaging exercises, and dedicated Q&A sessions to ensure your team gets the most out of the experience. Don’t miss the chance to invest in your team’s development and leadership journey. Find out more about how we can help your organization grow at www.theboardcurators.com Daphne E. Jones Nichelle Maynard-Elliott Bradley Strock Dr. Antoinette (Tonie) Leatherberry, Ed.D. Teri G. Fontenot #CorporateTraining #EmployeeDevelopment #SuccessJourney #ContinuousLearning #InvestInYourTeam #TheBoardCuratorsLive #LeadershipDevelopment #CorporateGrowth #EmpowerYourTeam

2024 Proxy Season: Navigating Challenges and Opportunities In an article by Merel Spierings from The Conference Board, key developments to watch in the 2024 proxy season are discussed. Companies and institutional investors are seeking common ground as they face a variety of shareholder proposals amidst a polarized environment with both pro- and anti-ESG pressures. Here are some critical takeaways: Shareholder Proposal Trends: With "proposal fatigue" setting in due to the high volume of shareholder proposals, average support levels have been declining. Shareholders are adapting by modifying their proposals or introducing new issues, such as clean energy financing and director resignation obligations. Regulatory Scrutiny and Compliance: As regulatory landscapes shift, companies must provide clear, specific information on the costs and benefits of implementing shareholder proposals, helping investors justify their votes. Cybersecurity and AI Oversight: Cybersecurity remains a top priority, especially with new regulations requiring public disclosure of cyber risks. The use of generative AI also presents both opportunities and risks that boards must carefully navigate. Board and Compensation Committee Dynamics: The nominating/governance and compensation committee chairs are facing increased scrutiny, particularly regarding diversity, overboarding, and executive compensation. Companies need to ensure clear communication and consistent engagement strategies to maintain investor confidence. The Future of Engagement: Effective shareholder engagement involves clear agendas, avoiding "ESG pandering," and recognizing that directors should address issues that fall under their purview, such as CEO succession or compensation. As the proxy season continues, it is crucial for boards and executives to stay informed, engaged, and adaptable to maintain strong governance and investor relations. Question for you: With shareholder proposals becoming more prescriptive and polarized in the 2024 proxy season, how can boards balance the need for innovation and ESG commitments with the pressures to maintain traditional business priorities? What strategies have you seen work effectively in aligning diverse stakeholder interests? For a more detailed analysis of these topics, read the full article by Merel Spierings at The Conference Board: https://lnkd.in/e6azxEPT. Daphne E. Jones Nichelle Maynard-Elliott Teri G. Fontenot Dr. Antoinette (Tonie) Leatherberry, Ed.D. Bradley Strock #CorporateGovernance #ProxySeason #BoardLeadership #ShareholderEngagement #ESG #TheConferenceBoard #MerelSpierings

We are The Board Curators—a passionate and dynamic team with extensive leadership experience spanning from the Fortune 20 to the Russell 3000 and across a wide range of industries worldwide. Our team brings a wealth of expertise from roles as CEOs, senior leaders, and experts in areas like commercial strategy, finance, law, compliance, healthcare, consulting, supply chain management, and digital transformation. At this pivotal time in corporate governance, we are dedicated to answering the pressing questions that many senior executives—especially women and people of color—have been asking for years: ?? "What do boards actually do?" ?? "What does it mean to be board-ready?" ?? "What steps do I need to take to become board-ready?" We know the path to the boardroom can seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. Our mission is to demystify the board readiness journey and provide you with the guidance, resources, and tools you need to take your leadership to the next level. We believe in empowering executives to understand not just the responsibilities and expectations of board roles but also the tremendous opportunities they present for influence, impact, and growth. Whether you're looking to leverage your expertise for a board role, seeking to understand the nuances of governance, or wanting to make meaningful connections with like-minded leaders, The Board Curators is here to support you. We specialize in turning seasoned executives into powerful boardroom assets. ?? Ready to take the next step in your leadership journey? Visit our website at www.theboardcurators.com to learn more about how we can help you become board-ready. The boardroom is calling, and we're here to help you answer. Your leadership journey awaits—let’s embark on it together! Daphne E. Jones Nichelle Maynard-Elliott Teri G. Fontenot Dr. Antoinette (Tonie) Leatherberry, Ed.D. Bradley Strock #BoardReadiness #CorporateGovernance #LeadershipDevelopment #DiversityInBoards #WomenInLeadership #ExecutiveEducation #TheBoardCurators

As we delve deeper into the second half of 2024, the challenges facing corporate boards continue to evolve. We've found great insight in a recent article from Deloitte's experts, which sheds light on the current and emerging issues in corporate governance. We believe this information is crucial for boards aiming to navigate the complex landscape of today's business environment effectively. Highlights from Deloitte's Insightful Analysis: Global Instability and Economic Shifts: Ongoing geopolitical conflicts and economic uncertainties demand vigilant and proactive board oversight to maintain stability and foresee potential impacts on operations and supply chains. Regulatory Changes: Constant updates in regulations, particularly concerning cybersecurity and financial disclosures, require boards to stay compliant and adapt their governance strategies accordingly. Advancements in Cybersecurity and AI: With the rise of cyber threats and the expansion of AI technologies like generative AI, robust oversight and strategic planning are essential to safeguard and leverage these innovations effectively. Leveraging Big Data: The integration of big data and AI is transforming business operations. Boards need to balance the benefits with the risks associated with data security and ethical considerations. As we navigate the latter part of 2024, it's imperative for boards not just to react to immediate concerns but also to plan strategically for the future. By enhancing the quality of information, restructuring agendas to focus on strategic risks, and prioritizing continuous education, boards can improve their effectiveness and steer their organizations towards sustainable success. For an in-depth analysis and practical strategies for board effectiveness, take a look at the full article by Carey Oven, Bob Lamm, and Maureen Bujno at Deloitte: https://lnkd.in/e6azxEPT. Daphne E. Jones Nichelle Maynard-Elliott Teri G. Fontenot Dr. Antoinette (Tonie) Leatherberry, Ed.D. Bradley Strock #CorporateGovernance #BoardOversight #StrategicPlanning #Cybersecurity #AI #RegulatoryChallenges

Aspiring to join a corporate board? It’s a significant step in any executive’s career, offering an opportunity to influence strategy, governance, and the future of a company. However, securing a board seat requires more than just desire; it necessitates a specific set of skills and experiences. Here at The Board Curators, we specialize in preparing executives like you for successful transitions into board roles. Here’s what you need to consider to determine if you’re truly board ready: Strategic Vision: Board members are expected to provide high-level strategic guidance. Can you foresee long-term market trends and contribute to big-picture planning? Financial Acumen: Understanding complex financial metrics and governance issues is crucial. Boards often require members to oversee detailed financial reports and audit processes. Risk Management: The ability to identify and mitigate risks is essential, particularly in today’s fast-paced business environments. Regulatory Knowledge: Staying compliant with laws and regulations is non-negotiable. Are you equipped with the knowledge to uphold legal standards? Leadership Experience: Proven leadership experience, especially in managing diverse teams and complex projects, sets you apart as a board candidate. Ethics and Integrity: High ethical standards and integrity are the foundations of effective board governance. Assessment Time: Reflect on these areas to assess your readiness. If you find gaps, don’t worry! That’s what we’re here for. The Board Curators offers tailored programs to polish your skills and prepare you for your next big role. Ready to take the next step in your governance career? Visit us at www.theboardcurators.com to learn how we can help you become the ideal board candidate. Also remember The Board Curators’ mid-summer sale ends on 9/15. Our courses are designed to engage, featuring comprehensive modules enriched with videos and voiceovers from our seasoned instructors, providing you with deep, practical insights. Ready to embark on your governance journey? Visit our site https://lnkd.in/e63_s2p6 to sign up and start today! Daphne E. Jones Nichelle Maynard-Elliott Bradley Strock Teri G. Fontenot Dr. Antoinette (Tonie) Leatherberry, Ed.D. #BoardReadiness #CorporateGovernance #ExecutiveLeadership #TheBoardCurators #CareerAdvancement #BoardRoles