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The Independent Director in Society: Our current crisis of governance and what to do by Gerry Brown, Andrew Kakabadse and Filipe Morais (view source)
Revision as of 14:07, 11 December 2020
, 14:07, 11 December 2020no edit summary
This might sound very depressing but Brown doesn't concentrate on the failings, or, indeed, the mechanics of the role but rather on board culture and relationships between directors. He seeks to develop independence of mind and action, looking carefully at the selection and training of directors and how they can get support (rather than dominance) from the chairman and the executive team. The distinctions he draws between 'governance' and 'management' will be a lightbulb moment for many people.
The book is very readable. The points he makes are illustrated by reference to stories we've all heard about such as Oxfam, the London Ambulance Service, Carillion and Kid's Company: individuals are not criticised but the points are clearly made. There is a lot of data to be considered, but the graphics (courtesy of Kakabadse, Morais and the Henley Business School) are excellent and in a consistent style throughout the book. By the time you get to the end, you may well have an 'I could do this' feeling. Alternatively, you might realise, having looked carefully at yourself, that the job your friend has been trying to talk you into is really not for you. Either way, it's a success story.
I'd like to thank the publishers for sending a copy to the Bookbag.