Proxy season is the cornerstone of corporate governance and as companies approach another season, it is essential for them to refine their strategies to ensure a smooth and successful process.
This panel will take a deep dive into how to turn your proxy statement into a strategic asset by crafting a compelling and transparent narrative, boosting investor trust, and enhancing governance standards.

• Identify the perfect equilibrium between meeting regulatory requirements and delivering clear, engaging communication.
• Evaluate the importance of incorporating ESG and notable company successes to elevate proxy disclosures
• Strategies for fostering collaboration across internal teams creating a cohesive narrative to harmonize disclosures
• Examine efficient methods to integrate proxy preparation into your broader governance and communication strategies, ensuring you are well-positioned to deliver high-quality, thoughtful disclosures when needed.
• Examples of the latest proxy statement trends, designs and content developments and strategies to assess its overall effectiveness
• Consider the best engagement tactics to maintain open communication with shareholders throughout the year

As technology continues to evolve at a rapid pace, organizations are faced with both unprecedented opportunities and significant risks. The board’s role in overseeing these risks is crucial to ensure that new technologies are implemented effectively and responsibly.
In this session, we will explore how boards can navigate the complexities of technological advancements, identify potential risks, and develop strategies to mitigate them.

• Practical tips on keeping boards informed on the latest threats and mitigation strategies
• Guidance on overcoming compliance challenges as technological advancements outpace the current regulatory frameworks
• Insights into effectively balancing the drive for innovation with the necessity of risk management
• Strategies to address ethical concerns in board members and knowledge gaps in leadership expertise
• Understand what investors are looking for in tech risk oversight
  Discuss how corporate governance professionals and boards are currently using AI and technology to ease work load.

In today’s dynamic corporate landscape, proxy fights and shareholder activism have become increasingly prevalent. These activities can significantly impact a company’s strategic direction and governance. It is therefore essential for boards to be well-versed in the processes and procedures required to navigate these challenges effectively.
During this session, we will delve into the current trends and future outlook for proxy fights and shareholder activism, the strategies employed by activists, the common triggers for proxy battles, and the best practices for boards to respond proactively and constructively.

• Discuss the current trends in shareholder activism
• Guidelines to educate the board on the mechanics of proxy fights, including the use of universal proxy cards, the role of proxy advisors, and the typical strategies employed by activists
• Develop a comprehensive plan for the board to respond to activist approaches, including early warning systems, engagement strategies, and effective communication techniques
• Evaluate the importance of conducting regular scenario planning and simulation exercises to prepare the board for potential activist campaigns, ensuring they can act swiftly and effectively under pressure
• Strategies to ensure boards are familiar with the legal and regulatory requirements surrounding proxy fights and shareholder activism, including recent changes and their implications

In today’s fast-paced and competitive business environment, the role of the board is more critical than ever. An effective board not only ensures robust governance, but also contributes to the company’s strategic growth, which is essential to its success.
Our expert panellists will explore the key elements that contribute to building and managing a high-performing board, sharing their insights on best practices for board composition, the importance of diversity and inclusion, and the strategies for fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation.

• Learn how to develop a clear and transparent board recruitment process that identifies the gaps and needs of your board and attracts and selects suitable candidates
• Practical tips to provide optimal orientation, onboarding and training for new board members
• Guidance on fostering a strong board culture and governance that nurtures a clear and shared vision and a respectful and trusting relationship among board members
• Navigating the regulatory minefield: discuss strategies governance professionals can use to innovate and adapt to sustain diversity on the board, even if political winds shift again
• Insights into efficiently balancing the tension between delivering short-term financial performance and investing in long-term strategic initiatives
• Evaluate the processes and procedures available to assess the effectiveness of board training

In recent years, the intersection of politics and corporate governance has become increasingly pronounced. Companies are finding themselves navigating a landscape where political considerations and stakeholder expectations play a significant role in governance decisions. Understanding how to effectively manage this politicization is crucial for maintaining stability and achieving strategic objectives.
This panel will explore the dynamics of the politicization of governance and its implications for corporate boards. Giving insights on how to anticipate and respond to political pressures, engage with diverse stakeholders, and integrate political risk management into governance practice

• Examples of how companies are adapting to new California legislation on climate disclosure and the CSRD from the EU;
• Discuss the catalysts, challenges and opportunities of opting to relocate to/incorporate in another state. Is “Dexit” a good idea and which state is best?
• To Act or not to Act: Discuss the relevance, future outlook and enforcement challenges of the Corporate Transparency Act and Foreign Corrupt Practices Act
• Learn how to efficiently navigate the rapidly evolving political and regulatory landscape and discuss the challenges of trying to future proof your plan
• Discuss the future of DE&I regulation and investor policies and its implications on disclosures

As we move into 2026, AGMs are evolving in response to shifting expectations, technological advancements, and the growing demand for more inclusive and impactful governance practices.
This panel will evaluate, give insights and practical tips on how to create a successful AGM to significantly enhance stakeholder trust and confidence.

• Practical tips on how to best engage with investors before, during and after the AGM
• Evaluate the challenges and opportunities of blending physical and virtual participation
• Discuss strategies to effectively address stakeholder questions and concerns, ensuring transparency, and showcasing the board’s achievements and future plans
• Advice on ensuring legal compliance at all times, referring to notice periods, quorum, and filings.
• Strategies to cope with unwanted disruption to guarantee a calm considered and constructive meeting.

Share your biggest corporate governance challenge in a special session that has been designed to work collaboratively on overcoming challenges with the help of fellow corporate secretaries