Frank M. Bruns’ Post

The more I study companies that soar to rapid growth only to falter shortly after, the more I question the role of their boards during these critical periods. A recent Norwegian book on corporate governance dives deep into this topic, sparking insights I am exploring in my term paper. As I prepare for a future role in business development, I see board oversight as essential—not only to guide growth but to safeguard it. Often we only see disgruntled investors and entrepreneurs but rarely do we see the work of the board questioned. What lessons can future leaders take from these cautionary tales? The book is written by Andrea Dahlum, "Styreansvar i praksis", where she presents over 400 cases where she maps how Norway's courts have interpreted board responsibility since the current Companies Act came into force. The picture emerges of a sprawling field where heavy responsibility sometimes hits differently. If you know a great case, article, book, or similar that I can use I would greatly appreciate it!

Join DCI's Mark LoVerde for a panel discussion to hear practical advice for managing common challenges in both the internal and external consulting worlds. Topics discussed will include setting oneself up for success, getting results, and navigating challenges. Learn more: https://lnkd.in/eQyfnj4

Choosing between a Board of Directors and a Board of Advisors? Your company's future might just depend on it. A Board of Directors is legally accountable, driving governance, compliance, and fiduciary responsibilities. They hold voting power and can significantly influence your strategic direction. A Board of Advisors, on the other hand, is less formal but equally valuable. They provide expert advice, mentorship, and networking opportunities, but without legal obligations or decision-making power. The key is understanding your needs—are you looking for governance and accountability, or strategic guidance and flexibility? Think carefully about what's best for your growth stage and long-term vision. What experiences have you had in assembling either type of board? Share your insights below!

From leading teams to shaping strategies, Chris Nezar's journey began with a simple observation: the power of decisions lies at the core. Inspired to make a greater impact, he took the leap into independent consulting, combining his expertise with the freedom to tackle bigger challenges across industries. Curious why Chris made the shift and what drew him to independent consulting? Swipe through the carousel to uncover his story! #myconsultingjourney #independentconsulting

Thanks to Private Company Director magazine for publishing my article on how to enhance the critical #CEO - #BoardofDirectors relationship for the success of companies.

🌍 Explore the dynamic landscape of Board Membership in Central and Eastern Europe in this insightful online event for Impact Board EM's members. Designed for aspiring and current Board professionals, this session will unpack the region's unique challenges and opportunities while offering practical guidance on securing a Board position. 💻 Key topics include: ✅ Understanding the landscape: Legal, economic and cultural factors influencing Board roles in Central and Eastern Europe. ✅ Navigating risks: Governance, compliance and political dynamics in the region. ✅ Embracing opportunities: Driving impactful decisions and leveraging growth potential. ✅ Finding a Board position in Central and Eastern Europe: Leveraging on professional networks and recruitment platforms, using direct approaches, establishing your personal branding, etc. 🗣️ About the speakers: Dr. Jerzy Kalinowski specialises in management, business strategies, building enterprise value, digital transformation innovation and the use of digital technologies in the economy. He is an experienced member of several supervisory boards, including PKO Bank Polski , the largest universal bank in Poland with the highest market cap on the Warsaw Stock Exchange. Dr.Jerzy Kalinowski is a former partner at KPMG Poland and has been a board member at Warsaw Stock Exchange (GPW), Demoboost, Priscus Finance, GPW DAI S.A.. Andrzej Maciejewski is a member of Spencer Stuart's Financial Services, Technology, Media & Telecommunications practices. He is also responsible for the firm’s Private Equity Practice in Central and Eastern Europe (CEE). Andrzej works across industries and functions, focusing on CEO and board director assignments. Filip Gorczyca is a Management Board Member at the Association of Independent Non-Executive Directors. He represents the Association at the Board of ecoDa, an umbrella organisation comprising the main national institutes of directors in Europe, among others acting as Chairman of ecoDa’s Working Group on Corporate Governance of State-Owned Enterprises. 🌐 We hope you will join our event to connect with experts and peers while uncovering pathways to meaningful Board positions in Central and Eastern Europe. 👉 Members can sign up directly on our website via the registration link in the comments section. If you are not a member and would like to join this even on a trial basis, please send us an email at info@iboardsem.com.

EDITORIAL: No organization’s aspect of itself is without flaw. That’s why companies ask expert outsiders to view their organizations from without; that’s why organizations create boards of directors. Institutional Real Estate, Inc., publisher of this magazine, is no exception. It maintains a board of directors for precisely that reason, and so does each of IREI’s magazines. Obviously, that includes Real Assets Adviser.

NACD (National Association of Corporate Directors) continues to advance the effectiveness of #boards through research and content devoted to the Future of the American Board. Take a look at the resources we offer, such as Directorship Magazine's digital edition on becoming a high-performing board in a more demanding environment. https://lnkd.in/dgtg5Esb #directorship #highperformance

Brief professional update: I have completed the Certified Chair™ Executive Program offered by the Advisory Board Centre, a global network across dozens of countries that supports the ambitions of entrepreneurs and corporations. A low percentage of Canadian companies have advisory boards, but they deliver benefits on a number of fronts: 1. Provide opportunities for businesses to think and problem-solve with external perspectives. 2. Help business owners make decisions that focus on long-term investment and growth. 3. Help navigate the complexities of accelerating needs around digital transformation. If you're interested in hearing more about the program or the particulars around setting up an advisory board (and how it differs from a governance board), my DMs are open. Brief back story: In 2013, I was editor of The Globe and Mail's Report on Small Business. I commissioned a guest column from Charles Berry, who at the time had recently made the transition from ballet dancer to accountant at his family firm in Toronto. You can read his piece here: https://lnkd.in/gtC2Td2t A few months ago he reached out to let me know he had since moved to Australia and wanted to introduce me to Penny Ellenger at the Advisory Board Centre. Now, here we are. #certifiedchair #advisoryboards #bestpractice #governancesystems