Mayree Clark and Linda Riefler: Leading-Edge Stewardship in the Boardroom

Effective board governance requires shifting from a purely fiduciary mindset to one centered on high-performing teamwork and long-term value creation. Experienced directors Mayree Clark and Linda Riefler argue that boards must prioritize psychological safety and candid communication to navigate complex environments, including corporate crises and disruptive technological shifts like AI. The Leading-Edge Stewardship Model provides a rubric for assessing board performance across 14 dimensions, emphasizing that individual directors must build influence through emotional intelligence rather than just technical expertise. When boards face underperformance or leadership transitions, they should move decisively but compassionately, using data-driven assessments to align on strategy. Ultimately, board members must ensure their personal purpose aligns with the organization’s mission, acting as stewards of both the company’s future and the broader principles of sustainable capitalism.