Diligent x S&P Global webinar: 'Navigating the evolving landscape of corporate governance'
This original version of this article was published on the S&P Global website and can be read here. To find out more about our collaboration with S&P Global, visit our newsroom.
In a business landscape defined by rapid change and high stakes, corporate boards, CFOs, and Investor Relations Officers (IROs) are more than decision-makers — they are the architects of resilience and long-term value.
Our recent webinar in partnership with S&P Global, "Empowering Corporate Boards: The Evolving Role of Directors and CFOs in Driving Informed, Risk-Ready Decisions," brought together industry experts to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing corporate leaders. Here are some key themes and insights from the session that can help guide your strategic decision-making.
1) Importance of data quality and timeliness
As the volume of data continues to grow, the challenge of filtering through this information to make informed decisions becomes increasingly complex. Mark Davis, a Senior Relationship and Growth Advisor at CrossCountry Consulting, emphasized, “You have to balance between giving the data and giving too much data. Is it really important, or is it noise?” Davis comments highlight the necessity for boards to focus on data that is not only accurate but also relevant and timely.
2) Cybersecurity and risk management oversight
With the rise in cyber threats, corporate boards must prioritize cybersecurity as a key component of their risk management strategies. Nithya Das, General Manager and Chief Legal Officer at Diligent, pointed out, “The pace of technology and the pace of data that's being shared is evolving at an incredibly fast pace.” This evolution necessitates that boards stay informed about their cybersecurity governance programs and the potential risks that can arise from technological advancements.
3) The evolving role of investor relations
The role of IROs has shifted from a primarily compliance-focused function to a strategic partner in the decision-making process. Kevin Roy, Head of Issuer Solutions, S&P Global Market Intelligence, stated, “IR is the role that's going to gather the feedback from institutional investors, sell-side analysts, and other stakeholders.” By effectively synthesizing market intelligence and investor sentiment, IROs can provide invaluable insights that shape corporate strategy.
3) Best practices for effective board communication
Effective communication is paramount for successful governance. As Mark Davis highlighted, “It’s not just about sharing data; it’s about sharing the story behind the data. Boards need context to understand the implications of what they’re seeing.” This underscores the importance of proactively delivering key information to board members in a concise and timely manner. The integration of technology can facilitate this process, allowing for seamless access to pertinent data.
4) Metrics and KPIs for informed decision-making
Understanding which metrics to monitor is crucial for board effectiveness. During the webinar, it was highlighted that boards should focus on key performance indicators (KPIs) that align with their strategic objectives. Kevin Roy remarked, “Ultimately, all the feedback that the Investor Relations team is gathering will help drive the strategic decision-making for the board.” This emphasizes the need for boards to have a clear understanding of their performance relative to peers and market expectations.
The bottom line
The insights shared during our webinar serve as a reminder that the landscape of corporate governance is continuously evolving. As Investor Relations Officers, Board of Directors, and Chief Finance Officers navigate these changes, it is essential to prioritize data quality, cybersecurity, effective communication, and the strategic use of metrics. By doing so, corporate leaders can make informed, risk-ready decisions that drive long-term success.
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