Model Attributes of Board Leaders

How to use this tool: Boards can reference the following attributes when

• establishing behavioral norms and expectations of board leaders,
• planning and conducting board leader evaluations,
• recruiting new board leaders and committee chairs, and
• planning for the succession of board leaders and committee chairs.

Part of the job description of lead independent directors and independent chairs (board leaders) is to be the culture carrier for the board. Fulfilling this job responsibility will require board leaders to exhibit many, if not all, of the attributes listed in this tool.

In our discussions with directors, these are the attributes of effective board leaders they have identified and seen in action.

Leadership Qualities

• Highly sophisticated type of leadership
• A leader of leaders, who should not be seen as the most important person in the room
• Servant leadership mentality
• A symphony conductor—someone who doesn't play an instrument but brings out the best in each director and the board
• Collaborative and inclusive consensus builder
• Sets the board culture by example
• Trusted, discrete, and viewed as independent and objective—not allied with the CEO or board, but always working toward consensus or resolution
• Strategic thinker, always keeping the big picture in view
• Projects an attitude that the board and management can effectively address issues when they arise