Maximizing and ensuring shareholder value and performance requires an ongoing review of the depth of talent in an organization as well as the right complement of skills to lead effectively and navigate changing strategies.  As markets become more global and technology continues to play an even greater role in strategy, the criteria established for both [...]

As I reflect on my travels to over 20 cities in 2011, I am struck by a conversation I’d like to share with you.  Upon arriving late one evening in Las Vegas to speak at a credit union conference, I asked the cab driver “how’s business?” I heard a profoundly sad story.  His face is [...]

Recently I moderated a webinar that is part of the National Association for Corporate Directors (NACD) Boardroom Excellence Series entitled, “Boards and CEOs:  Trust, Transparency and Constructive Tension.   The participants, Kenneth Daly, President and CEO, NACD and The Honorable Kenneth M. Duberstein, Lead Director, The Boeing Company and Director, The Travelers Companies and Conoco-Phillips shared [...]

This week I attended the 34th Annual National Director’s Convention in Las Vegas as a speaker on the topic of “Relentless Strategic  Leadership to Ensure Member Value ”.  The sessions were attended by both directors and CEOs.  The topic most commonly asked in both sessions were concerns about toxic board members who are defined as [...]

Last week I attended a conference in New York City hosted by the National Association of Corporate Directors.  Core to this organization is the belief in education of directors who serve shareholders and other important stakeholders. Here are some directional issues that will redefine standards and behaviors and will require boards to transform their governance [...]

Having just returned from NACUSO’s 2011 Annual Conference in Las Vegas, I thought it would be appropriate to share some perspective on current issues and trends that will impact your credit union and its ability to survive and thrive. Gigi Hyland, Board Member, NCUA, spoke about the unprecedented challenge of addressing the worst economic recession [...]

Last week I attended a governance conference in New York City.  The primary focus of the meeting was education of directors who serve members and other important stakeholders. The real challenge that CEOs and boards face, is to learn as fast as the world is changing.  This implies a commitment to strengthening our skills to [...]

Directors desire a stronger line of communication with the CEO than is presently acknowledged. Sometimes lack of dialogue is a byproduct of board rules, including requirements for executive sessions without the CEO present. Sometimes it stems from failing to make such conversation a priority. Committing to an intelligent exchange of ideas with your CEO will [...]

As the NCUA considers regulatory changes for board governance, I am struck by the amount of time and energy dedicated by volunteers at credit unions.  As the business environment gets more complicated, boards and CEOs have to define and clarify their roles and responsibilities.  This will require more direct communication and understanding of strategy. Committing [...]

The world as we know it is in a continuous state of change for credit union directors.  The new proposed NCUA regulations will require increased board leadership, transparency and communication that is different than a “check the box” mentality.  What important leadership lessons are to be learned so that your board can make better decisions [...]