Cambridge
Academy
In London

Introduction:

This course provides a comprehensive overview of corporate governance principles with a focus on the governance of boards and their affiliated committees. Participants will learn effective methods for managing board meetings, including agenda setting, meeting facilitation, and documentation through minutes. The course also covers the latest practices and trends in corporate governance to ensure that participants are well-versed in modern standards and best practices.

Course Objectives:

By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

1. Understand the fundamental principles and importance of corporate governance.
2. Recognize the structure and governance procedures of boards and affiliated committees.
3. Master skills for managing board meetings, from agenda preparation to minute-taking.
4. Write professional minutes and document key discussion points effectively.
5. Gain insight into recent trends and modern practices in corporate governance.
6. Apply learned principles to enhance the efficiency and transparency of board performance.

Target Audience:

• Board members
• Members of board committees
• Executives and general managers
• Employees involved in preparing and managing board meetings
• Those responsible for documenting meeting minutes
• Individuals interested in strengthening their knowledge of corporate governance

Course Content:

Unit 1: Introduction to Corporate Governance

• Definition and importance of corporate governance
• Principles of corporate governance
• The difference between management and governance
• The role of governance in promoting transparency and accountability
• Objectives and roles of the board of directors
• Standards for effective boards

Unit 2: Structure of Boards and Affiliated Committees

• Board composition and roles
• Types and functions of affiliated committees
• Responsibilities of board members
• The board's relationship with executive management
• Criteria for selecting members and task allocation
• Enhancing independence and integrity within the board

Unit 3: Managing Board Meetings

• Steps to prepare an effective agenda
• How to facilitate meetings professionally
• Time management skills and keeping discussions on track
• Roles of the chairperson and members during meetings
• Common challenges in meeting management and solutions
• Enhancing interaction and decision-making

Unit 4: Documenting Meetings and Writing Minutes

• The importance of meeting documentation in governance
• How to write a professional meeting minute
• Key elements of a meeting minute
• Professional phrasing and precise documentation of decisions
• The role of minutes in follow-up and performance assessment
• How to archive and distribute minutes to members

Unit 5: Modern Practices in Corporate Governance

• Recent trends in corporate governance
• The role of technology in enhancing governance
• How to apply sustainability standards in governance
• Inclusive governance and social responsibility
• Evaluating board performance and development
• How to adopt modern practices to improve board efficiency