A recent survey suggests that sitting CEOs may actually be less effective directors than non-CEOs, citing the responses of 79 percent of directors who said sitting CEOs were no more effective in the role than non-CEOs. The summary of the 2011 Corporate Board of Directors Survey also noted that 55 percent of respondents felt that retired CEOs are actually more effective than active CEOs at board services, and suggested that active CEOs simply haven’t got the time to do the director job well.
But take a hard look at the numbers behind that sweeping conclusion before you rethink your board seats. Just 15 percent of survey respondents were current CEOs, meaning that 85 percent were non-CEOs—and perhaps somewhat unlikely to describe themselves as less qualified than a CEO board member.
What’s more, when asked what traits make active CEOs attractive board candidates, most respondents cited several qualities, including strategic expertise (77 percent), operational expertise (74 percent) and leadership qualities (67 percent).
The bottom line? Sure, CEOs are pressed for time, but they’re also uniquely qualified and motivated to deliver value. And the benefits they bring to the director role—from experience responding to a crisis to extensive personal and professional networks—are invaluable.
Chief Executive Group exists to improve the performance of U.S. CEOs, senior executives and public-company directors, helping you grow your companies, build your communities and strengthen society. Learn more at chiefexecutivegroup.com.
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1:00 - 5:00 pm
Over 70% of Executives Surveyed Agree: Many Strategic Planning Efforts Lack Systematic Approach Tips for Enhancing Your Strategic Planning Process
Executives expressed frustration with their current strategic planning process. Issues include:
Steve Rutan and Denise Harrison have put together an afternoon workshop that will provide the tools you need to address these concerns. They have worked with hundreds of executives to develop a systematic approach that will enable your team to make better decisions during strategic planning. Steve and Denise will walk you through exercises for prioritizing your lists and steps that will reset and reinvigorate your process. This will be a hands-on workshop that will enable you to think about your business as you use the tools that are being presented. If you are ready for a Strategic Planning tune-up, select this workshop in your registration form. The additional fee of $695 will be added to your total.
2:00 - 5:00 pm
Female leaders face the same issues all leaders do, but they often face additional challenges too. In this peer session, we will facilitate a discussion of best practices and how to overcome common barriers to help women leaders be more effective within and outside their organizations.
Limited space available.
10:30 - 5:00 pm
General’s Retreat at Hermitage Golf Course
Sponsored by UBS
General’s Retreat, built in 1986 with architect Gary Roger Baird, has been voted the “Best Golf Course in Nashville” and is a “must play” when visiting the Nashville, Tennessee area. With the beautiful setting along the Cumberland River, golfers of all capabilities will thoroughly enjoy the golf, scenery and hospitality.
The golf outing fee includes transportation to and from the hotel, greens/cart fees, use of practice facilities, and boxed lunch. The bus will leave the hotel at 10:30 am for a noon shotgun start and return to the hotel after the cocktail reception following the completion of the round.
