Mike O'Donnell is a business manager, company director, family man and self-confessed techno-geek who writes a weekly column for the Dominion Post. Mike's comments can be provocative, cynical, irreverent and highly insightful—sometimes in the same column. Almost always though, his comments are entertaining and relevant. His latest contribution, which recounts a speech he delivered at the recent Institute of Directors annual conference, fits in the inspired and relevant category. Here's a piece from the column:
I see the role of directors as being threefold. First, to select and appoint the right CEO for the company. Second, to provide meaningful governance on issues like solvency, risk, remuneration and health and safety. Third, to help set a strategic direction that will deliver growth and help monitor its implementation.
In three points, Mike summed up the role of the board really well. However, I would alter the sequence, because the third point needs to come first. Without purpose and strategy, there is not much for the CEO to do, or the board to govern.