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Executive Education
    ... Right arrow Harvard Business School Right arrow Executive Education Right arrow Programs for Individuals Right arrow Topic-Focused Programs Right arrow Making Corporate Boards More Effective—Virtual Right arrow OverviewCurriculumTeaching Team
    ... Right arrow Harvard Business School Right arrow Executive Education Right arrow Programs for Individuals Right arrow Topic-Focused Programs Right arrow Making Corporate Boards More Effective—Virtual Right arrow OverviewCurriculumTeaching Team
    New Program

    Making Corporate Boards More Effective—Virtual

    New Program
    Making Corporate Boards More Effective—Virtual
    • Upcoming Session
    • Carousel left arrow (1 of 1) Carousel right arrow
    • Dates: TBD
    • Format: Virtual
    • Fee: TBD
    • The program fee covers tuition, e-books, and online case materials.

      This program includes live online classes, self-paced work, discussion groups, and virtual networking.
    View In-Person Program Offering
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    Program Advising team
    Email: executive_education@hbs.edu
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    Print
    • Overview
    • Curriculum
    • Teaching Team
    • Teaching Team Dropdown down
      • Overview
      • Curriculum
      • Teaching Team
    Program Announcement
    The information below is based on the program offered in NOV 2020, and does not reflect potential changes to faculty and course content for future program offerings. Please consider applying to the related in-person program.

    Summary

    Faced with increasingly complex oversight challenges and demands for greater transparency, how can today's boards do more for their companies? In this virtual board of directors education program, you will gain a deeper understanding of the board's responsibilities in areas such as financial resilience, strategic direction, leadership succession, executive compensation, organizational culture, risk management, and sustainability. At the same time, you will learn how to work more effectively with fellow directors and company management to strengthen governance, manage unexpected crises, and make decisions that drive long-term corporate success.

    You may also be interested in the related in-person program: Making Corporate Boards More Effective.

    This program is eligible for the Corporate Director Certificate. Learn More

    Dropdown down Dropdown up

    Summary

    Faced with increasingly complex oversight challenges and demands for greater transparency, how can today's boards do more for their companies? In this virtual board of directors education program, you will gain a deeper understanding of the board's responsibilities in areas such as financial resilience, strategic direction, leadership succession, executive compensation, organizational culture, risk management, and sustainability. At the same time, you will learn how to work more effectively with fellow directors and company management to strengthen governance, manage unexpected crises, and make decisions that drive long-term corporate success.

    You may also be interested in the related in-person program: Making Corporate Boards More Effective.

    This program is eligible for the Corporate Director Certificate. Learn More

    Key Benefits
    This virtual corporate governance program is based on the premise that there is no one best way for boards to operate—rather, each board must develop practices that suit the unique needs of its company and management. As you examine the latest thinking on the internal function of corporate boards, interaction with management, and overall board relations, you will discover how to enhance and focus your own board's efforts. You will take away key learnings that you can apply immediately to the challenges and uncertainties presented by the COVID-19 crisis.

    DetailsExpand AllCollapse All

    Strengthen the impact of your corporate boardStrengthen the impact of your corporate board
    Dropdown down
    • Achieve trust through more positive relationships within the board and with the management team
    • Create more effective governance processes
    • Make the most of each board member's time, knowledge, and experience
    • Contribute more meaningfully to corporate guidance and oversight activities
    Expand your personal and professional networkExpand your personal and professional network
    Dropdown down
    • Extend your network by connecting and working with accomplished directors from various backgrounds, industries, and countries across the globe
    • Build relationships with a diverse group of peers who can provide wide-ranging insights into your business challenges and career decisions

    Key Benefits Dropdown up

    Key Benefits Dropdown down

    This virtual corporate governance program is based on the premise that there is no one best way for boards to operate—rather, each board must develop practices that suit the unique needs of its company and management. As you examine the latest thinking on the internal function of corporate boards, interaction with management, and overall board relations, you will discover how to enhance and focus your own board's efforts. You will take away key learnings that you can apply immediately to the challenges and uncertainties presented by the COVID-19 crisis.
    Details

    Strengthen the impact of your corporate board

    • Achieve trust through more positive relationships within the board and with the management team
    • Create more effective governance processes
    • Make the most of each board member's time, knowledge, and experience
    • Contribute more meaningfully to corporate guidance and oversight activities

    Expand your personal and professional network

    • Extend your network by connecting and working with accomplished directors from various backgrounds, industries, and countries across the globe
    • Build relationships with a diverse group of peers who can provide wide-ranging insights into your business challenges and career decisions

    Who Should Attend

    This program is designed to meet the needs of board members, chairs, and directors of publicly held companies and established companies that are planning to go public or undergo a significant transformation.

    Program for Leadership Development participants earn 3 PLDA Points on completion of this program.

    Who Should Attend Dropdown down

    Who Should Attend Dropdown down

    This program is designed to meet the needs of board members, chairs, and directors of publicly held companies and established companies that are planning to go public or undergo a significant transformation.

    Program for Leadership Development participants earn 3 PLDA Points on completion of this program.

    Leaders in Virtual Learning

    When you participate in a virtual HBS Executive Education program, you benefit from a powerful learning experience carefully designed with a virtual setting in mind. Through live, synchronous program sessions you'll engage directly with our renowned faculty to learn from their latest research, gain actionable takeaways, and facilitate your growth. In addition, virtual discussion groups will connect you to a global group of peers and build your network.

    Dive Deeper into the Experience
    Play video
    Play video
    Discover more about business. And yourself.
    Global perspectives > Leadership growth > Organizational impact.
    Watch the VideoWatch the Video
    Rowena Track, Global Vice President, TE Connectivity, U.S.,  Creating a Holistic Educational Experience, Compensation Committees participant, HBS Executive Education
    Creating a Holistic Educational Experience
    Master corporate governance with three complementary programs.
    Read Her Story
    Youngme Moon teaching in the HBSonline studio
    Understanding the Benefits of Our Virtual Programs
    Four participants of our live online programs share their experiences.
    Read Their Stories
    Dropdown down Dropdown up

    Leaders in Virtual Learning

    When you participate in a virtual HBS Executive Education program, you benefit from a powerful learning experience carefully designed with a virtual setting in mind. Through live, synchronous program sessions you'll engage directly with our renowned faculty to learn from their latest research, gain actionable takeaways, and facilitate your growth. In addition, virtual discussion groups will connect you to a global group of peers and build your network.

    Dive Deeper into the Experience
    Play video
    Play video
    Discover more about business. And yourself.
    Global perspectives > Leadership growth > Organizational impact.
    Watch the VideoWatch the Video
    Rowena Track, Global Vice President, TE Connectivity, U.S.,  Creating a Holistic Educational Experience, Compensation Committees participant, HBS Executive Education
    Creating a Holistic Educational Experience
    Master corporate governance with three complementary programs.
    Read Her Story
    Youngme Moon teaching in the HBSonline studio
    Understanding the Benefits of Our Virtual Programs
    Four participants of our live online programs share their experiences.
    Read Their Stories

    Admissions Criteria and Process

    We admit candidates to specific sessions on a rolling, space-available basis, and encourage you to apply as early as possible. Although most programs have no formal educational requirements, admission is a selective process based on your professional achievement and organizational responsibilities.
    Read More
    Dropdown down

    Answering Your Questions

    Our Program Advising team can help you at any stage of the admissions process—starting with identifying the program that best addresses your learning and development goals. Contact a program advisor via email or call 1.800.427.5577 (outside the U.S., call +1.617.495.6555).

    Application Submission

    We recommend that you apply at least four weeks before the program start date. You may use our online form or download an application. HBS maintains all application information in strict confidentiality. We acknowledge receipt of applications via email. In the unlikely event that you do not receive an acknowledgment, please email us at exed_admissions@hbs.edu or call us at +1.617.495.6226.

    Application Review

    To optimize the learning experience and maximize the exchange of ideas, our Admissions Committee makes selections that balance each participant's experience, scope of current responsibilities, and type of organization. HBS seeks candidates who reflect a broad range of industries, functions, countries, and backgrounds. We review applications monthly and will contact you via email with the Admissions Committee's decision.

    Fee, Payment, and Cancellations

    The program fee covers tuition, e-books, and online case materials. No payment is necessary until you have been accepted. Payment is required prior to the program start date. If you need to cancel participation, you must submit your request in writing more than 14 days before the program start date to receive a full refund. Cancellations received 7 to 14 days before the program start date are subject to a payment of 50 percent of the program fee. Requests received within 7 days of the program start date are subject to full payment of the program fee.

    Admissions Criteria and Process Dropdown down

    Admissions Criteria and Process Dropdown down

    We admit candidates to specific sessions on a rolling, space-available basis, and encourage you to apply as early as possible. Although most programs have no formal educational requirements, admission is a selective process based on your professional achievement and organizational responsibilities.

    Answering Your Questions

    Our Program Advising team can help you at any stage of the admissions process—starting with identifying the program that best addresses your learning and development goals. Contact a program advisor via email or call 1.800.427.5577 (outside the U.S., call +1.617.495.6555).

    Application Submission

    We recommend that you apply at least four weeks before the program start date. You may use our online form or download an application. HBS maintains all application information in strict confidentiality. We acknowledge receipt of applications via email. In the unlikely event that you do not receive an acknowledgment, please email us at exed_admissions@hbs.edu or call us at +1.617.495.6226.

    Application Review

    To optimize the learning experience and maximize the exchange of ideas, our Admissions Committee makes selections that balance each participant's experience, scope of current responsibilities, and type of organization. HBS seeks candidates who reflect a broad range of industries, functions, countries, and backgrounds. We review applications monthly and will contact you via email with the Admissions Committee's decision.

    Fee, Payment, and Cancellations

    The program fee covers tuition, e-books, and online case materials. No payment is necessary until you have been accepted. Payment is required prior to the program start date. If you need to cancel participation, you must submit your request in writing more than 14 days before the program start date to receive a full refund. Cancellations received 7 to 14 days before the program start date are subject to a payment of 50 percent of the program fee. Requests received within 7 days of the program start date are subject to full payment of the program fee.

    What You Will Learn

    Through a rich learning experience that includes faculty presentations, case studies, and small group discussions, you and your peers will explore the most important strategic and organizational issues facing corporate boards today—and consider how the most successful boards are addressing their challenges. You will emerge better equipped to address the immediate issues presented by the COVID-19 crisis as well as the enduring challenges for corporate boards everywhere.

    Dropdown down Dropdown up

    What You Will Learn

    Through a rich learning experience that includes faculty presentations, case studies, and small group discussions, you and your peers will explore the most important strategic and organizational issues facing corporate boards today—and consider how the most successful boards are addressing their challenges. You will emerge better equipped to address the immediate issues presented by the COVID-19 crisis as well as the enduring challenges for corporate boards everywhere.

    Program Format

    The program takes place over three days, with live, synchronous classes daily (10:00 AM to 2:45 PM ET, including two 30-minute breaks), two required welcoming sessions, and small group discussions for learning and networking. Class sessions will take place via the Zoom platform. You will also have ample opportunity for interaction with faculty and peers inside and outside the class sessions.

    Collaborative learning is an integral part of the experience. To maximize the benefit for everyone, you are expected to attend every session, complete all assignments, and contribute effectively in the class and in small groups. We advise setting aside a total of 2-3 hours per day for program work in addition to the synchronous class sessions.

    Dropdown down Dropdown up

    Program Format

    The program takes place over three days, with live, synchronous classes daily (10:00 AM to 2:45 PM ET, including two 30-minute breaks), two required welcoming sessions, and small group discussions for learning and networking. Class sessions will take place via the Zoom platform. You will also have ample opportunity for interaction with faculty and peers inside and outside the class sessions.

    Collaborative learning is an integral part of the experience. To maximize the benefit for everyone, you are expected to attend every session, complete all assignments, and contribute effectively in the class and in small groups. We advise setting aside a total of 2-3 hours per day for program work in addition to the synchronous class sessions.

    Key TopicsExpand AllCollapse All

    The board and managementThe board and management
    Dropdown down
    • Understanding the board's role and responsibilities in relation to management
    • Working with management to oversee company strategy
    • Grooming the next generation of top management
    The board's internal processesThe board's internal processes
    Dropdown down
    • Creating a successful environment for collective board functioning
    • Becoming a successful director as part of the overall board
    • Designing the most effective structure, composition, and processes for your board
    • Identifying the personal qualities and characteristics needed in the boardroom and ensuring board renewal
    • Providing constructive feedback to one another and to the board's leaders
    Proactive governance and risk mitigationProactive governance and risk mitigation
    Dropdown down
    • Overseeing communication with investors and other stakeholders about your company's purpose and long-term strategy
    • Ensuring that your company complies with relevant laws, regulations, and ethical standards
    • Preparing for unexpected events and crises, such as activist takeovers, accounting fraud, environmental disasters, and cybersecurity threats
    • Creating a framework for overseeing emerging issues

    Key Topics Dropdown up

    Key Topics Dropdown down

    The board and management

    • Understanding the board's role and responsibilities in relation to management
    • Working with management to oversee company strategy
    • Grooming the next generation of top management

    The board's internal processes

    • Creating a successful environment for collective board functioning
    • Becoming a successful director as part of the overall board
    • Designing the most effective structure, composition, and processes for your board
    • Identifying the personal qualities and characteristics needed in the boardroom and ensuring board renewal
    • Providing constructive feedback to one another and to the board's leaders

    Proactive governance and risk mitigation

    • Overseeing communication with investors and other stakeholders about your company's purpose and long-term strategy
    • Ensuring that your company complies with relevant laws, regulations, and ethical standards
    • Preparing for unexpected events and crises, such as activist takeovers, accounting fraud, environmental disasters, and cybersecurity threats
    • Creating a framework for overseeing emerging issues

    The HBS Advantage

    Our Executive Education programs are developed and taught by HBS faculty who are widely recognized as skilled educators, groundbreaking researchers, and award-winning authors. Through their board memberships, consulting, and field-based research, they address the complex challenges facing business leaders across the globe.

    Faculty Cochairs
    Lynn S. Paine
    Lynn S. Paine
    Lynn S. Paine

    Lynn S. Paine

    John G. McLean Professor of Business Administration

    HBS Unit:
    General Management

    Read Full Bio

    Suraj Srinivasan
    Suraj Srinivasan
    Suraj Srinivasan

    Suraj Srinivasan

    Philip J. Stomberg Professor of Business Administration

    HBS Unit:
    Accounting and Management

    Read Full Bio

    Faculty
    David G. Fubini
    David G. Fubini
    David G. Fubini

    David G. Fubini

    Senior Lecturer of Business Administration

    HBS Unit:
    Organizational Behavior

    Read Full Bio

    Krishna G. Palepu
    Krishna G. Palepu
    Krishna G. Palepu

    Krishna G. Palepu

    Ross Graham Walker Professor of Business Administration

    HBS Units:
    Accounting and Management
    General Management

    Read Full Bio

    Dropdown down Dropdown up

    The HBS Advantage

    Our Executive Education programs are developed and taught by HBS faculty who are widely recognized as skilled educators, groundbreaking researchers, and award-winning authors. Through their board memberships, consulting, and field-based research, they address the complex challenges facing business leaders across the globe.

    Faculty Cochairs
    Lynn S. Paine
    Lynn S. Paine
    Lynn S. Paine

    Lynn S. Paine

    John G. McLean Professor of Business Administration

    HBS Unit:
    General Management

    Read Full Bio

    Suraj Srinivasan
    Suraj Srinivasan
    Suraj Srinivasan

    Suraj Srinivasan

    Philip J. Stomberg Professor of Business Administration

    HBS Unit:
    Accounting and Management

    Read Full Bio

    Faculty
    David G. Fubini
    David G. Fubini
    David G. Fubini

    David G. Fubini

    Senior Lecturer of Business Administration

    HBS Unit:
    Organizational Behavior

    Read Full Bio

    Krishna G. Palepu
    Krishna G. Palepu
    Krishna G. Palepu

    Krishna G. Palepu

    Ross Graham Walker Professor of Business Administration

    HBS Units:
    Accounting and Management
    General Management

    Read Full Bio

    Program content, dates, schedule, fees, technology platforms, and faculty are subject to change. In accordance with Harvard University policy, Harvard Business School does not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, color, sex or sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, age, national or ethnic origin, political beliefs, veteran status, or disability in admission to, access to, treatment in, or employment in its programs and activities.
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