“Boards stand accused of being tone-deaf, behind the curve, and even patently corrupt”, so asserts author Dambisa Moyo in her new book ‘How Boards Work’ (2021, New Bridge Street Press). Moyo is an economist with a strong academic background who has published widely, while also being a director on numerous global company boards.
The book champions a modernized approach to governance and while it incorporates the effects of the 2020 pandemic, it is very future focussed. It covers not only the basics of good board governance, but also tackles the issues and tough questions facing directors. The principles of the book apply equally across multinational organisations to not-for-profit and smaller entities.
Beginning with a short but informative history of how boards developed, it lays out the case for change, peppered with examples and illustrations. It situates the role of the board in organisations really well, highlighting how they can best add value. Topics explored include the board’s role and responsibility for long-term planning and strategic direction, selecting the CEO and new board members, and overseeing company culture. It finishes by looking at the top five critical issues facing boards, with potential proposals for reforms moving into the twenty-first century.
The author manages to blend the academic with her extensive experience to produce an interesting and worthwhile book, suitable for both new and experienced directors. This would be a good addition to the library of any company director or governance specialist.