What is the role of a board chair?

After surveying 200 board chairs and interviewing 140 chairs, directors, shareholders, and CEOs, INSEAD has distilled the requirements for the chair’s role down to eight principles: (1) Be the guide on the side; show restraint and leave room for others. (2) Practice teaming—not team building.

What does a chairman of the board do?

The Chairman of the board holds a crucial role in an organisation as they lead and manage the Board of Directors. Their responsibilities revolve around providing leadership, setting expectations for the Company’s culture, and creating an environment for constructive discussion and informed decision-making.

Can a chair of the Board serve as Chief Executive Officer?

The Chair of the Board can also serve as Chief Executive Officer. Since part of the board's role is supervising management, that dual role may sometimes create the appearance of a conflict of interests. The role of the Chair of the Board presents several challenges that require adept leadership.