Initiatives

Lead Director Network

The vanguard of independent board leadership

Prompted by changes in stock exchange listing standards, most US public companies have appointed an independent, non-executive director to lead the independent board members. Whether called lead or presiding director or non-executive chairman, these independent board leaders play a vital role in strengthening corporate governance.

The Lead Director Network (LDN) is a group of leading independent directors from America’s most successful companies who share a commitment to improving corporate performance and earning shareholder trust through more effective board leadership. LDN members gather several times each year to candidly and thoughtfully address critical issues confronting their boards and their companies. The network is supported by King & Spalding.

Recent network topics:

Challenges in board leadership

At the eleventh LDN meeting, members discussed challenges they face in their role as lead directors. Members discussed four types of challenges at length: dealing with director underperformance, responding to an underperforming CEO, bringing new directors on board, and lead director succession. By virtue of their role as first among equals, their temperament, and their experiences, lead directors frequently guide their boards through critical situations that are unaddressed by corporate governance guidelines. At dinner, Bank of America chief economist, Dr. Mickey Levy, led a discussion of macroeconomic trends in Europe and the United States.

Learn More

Engaging with strategy after the financial crisis

Members discussed how they engage with strategy in a post-crisis, globalized business environment. The focus of their renewed strategic review is often international, where the excitement concerning impressive growth opportunities is tempered by distinctive risks. Ambassador Susan Schwab, the 15th United States Trade Representative, joined the meeting as a guest.

Learn More

The relationship between the lead director and the CEO

Members of the Lead Director Network note the importance of the lead director and CEO relationship. They discussed factors that affect the relationship and the responsibilities of the lead director as a result of this relationship, including agenda setting, chairing executive sessions, evaluating the CEO, and terminating the CEO.

Learn More

Enhancing board performance

Members considered what it means to be a high-performing board, the critical components for enhancing board performance, and how boards may evaluate their own performance. Members were joined at the meeting by Dr. Ram Charan.

Learn More

Related links:

Issues addressed by corporate governance networks

View Network Fact Sheet

Participant Profile

Dan Carp
Lead Director Network

Non-executive Chairman, Delta Air Lines