Governance in Action: Building Stronger Boards in Disruptive Times
In a world defined by volatility, complexity, and rapid change, governance can no longer be passive. Boards that once focused solely on oversight and compliance are now expected to lead through disruption, guiding organizations through geopolitical shifts, digital transformation, reputational risk, and the rise of artificial intelligence.
The days of ceremonial board roles are over. Today’s board members must be active, informed, and prepared to make courageous decisions. That means governance in action, where leadership, accountability, and strategic foresight come together.
“If you’re not paying attention to AI, CEO accountability, and boardroom dynamics, your board is already behind.” Dr. Richard Leblanc
What Effective Boards Are Doing Differently
1. They Treat AI as a Board-Level Issue
Artificial intelligence isn’t just an IT or innovation topic, it’s a governance challenge. From ethics and bias to data security and organizational risk, AI must be governed with the same discipline as financial oversight. Effective boards are developing AI literacy, asking the right questions, and integrating frameworks like NIST’s AI Risk Management into their oversight practices.
2. They Take CEO Oversight Seriously
The board’s single most important responsibility is the hiring, evaluation, and support of the CEO. Strong boards define clear reporting relationships, separate the roles of chair and CEO, and conduct annual performance reviews tied to measurable outcomes. CEO compensation is structured to drive behavior, not just reward results.
3. They Address Dysfunction Head-On
A dysfunctional board is often the result of a single unchecked voice. Whether it’s a disengaged director or an overpowering founder, effective boards don’t ignore toxic dynamics. They implement performance evaluations, establish board norms, and act when conduct falls short of expectations.
4. They Understand That Structure Isn’t Enough
Good governance isn’t just about policies and procedures. It’s also about culture, leadership, and strategic alignment. High-performing boards contribute insight, challenge assumptions, and help leadership think ahead. Advisory capacity, when paired with accountability, makes for a powerful board presence.
Governance for All Organizations
These principles don’t apply only to large corporations. Nonprofits, associations, and community organizations must also hold themselves to high standards, especially when they serve vulnerable populations or steward public trust. Regardless of size, strong governance is built on clarity of roles, independence, and a skilled Chair who can guide productive discussion and action.
Even when resources are limited, boards can start with foundational practices:
- Conducting board self-assessments
- Clarifying reporting relationships with the Executive Director
- Setting term limits and recruitment criteria
- Ensuring financial and ethical accountability
Courage, Not Just Compliance
The best boards don’t just monitor. They lead. They bring courage to the table, ask difficult questions, and act when others won’t. In an era of increasing stakeholder scrutiny and complex risk, governance must be proactive, bold, and deeply engaged.
Because when boards lead with purpose, they do more than safeguard the organization. They shape its future.
Watch the Full Conversation
To explore these ideas further and hear real-world insights on governance, CEO oversight, and board leadership, watch the full episode of Governance in Action with Dr. Richard Leblanc.
What Participants Said:
“Your guidance is very wise but hard for small orgs to undertake all of this. Do you have suggestions for the best board training for small non-profits?”
“Great session—thank you! This was one of the most valuable governance talks I’ve attended.”
Access the recording and other What’s Up Wednesday sessions here:
https://cmc-canada.ca/Ontario/Ontario-Recorded%20Sessions
