Insights from the 2025 Blue Ribbon Commission Report

Attendees left the session with a clearer understanding of why a high-trust board–CEO relationship had become a defining factor in organizational performance. Through executive-level insights, they explored how alignment between directors and CEOs served as a competitive imperative and examined the governance practices most closely tied to strong outcomes. Participants learned to recognize the common pitfalls—role ambiguity, uneven engagement, and mismatched expectations—that frequently eroded otherwise capable leadership teams.

The discussion equipped directors with practical frameworks for improving oversight and sharpening decision-making. Attendees reported gaining tools they could immediately apply to strengthen their partnership with the CEO, enhance board effectiveness, and support organizational resilience in a volatile environment. Direct engagement with the report’s architects allowed participants to test ideas, ask candid questions, and refine their approach. The session ultimately helped directors rethink how to design, sustain, and elevate one of their most essential relationships.

Speakers

Senior Managing Director & Head of Consulting, Pearl Meyer

Jannice Koors

Jan Koors is a senior managing director with Pearl Meyer and head of consulting services. In this role, Jan is focused on leveraging the firm’s consulting capabilities and enhancing relationships with our national marketing partners. She is a member of the leadership team which guides the firm’s strategy...

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Director, True Blue, Port Blakely Companies, Big5 Sporting Goods Corporation

Colleen Brown

Colleen B. Brown is an experienced corporate director and seasoned public company CEO. As an independent director, she currently serves on the boards of three diverse and dynamic companies...

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