JOURNAL ARTICLE

The Skills Board Chairs Need Now.

  • Published In: Harvard Business Review, 2026, v. 104, n. 2. P. 114 1 of 3

  • Database: Business Source Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Falcão, Pedro Fontes; Peterson, Randall S. 3 of 3

Abstract

The article focuses on the evolving role of the board chair in corporate governance amid increasing stakeholder complexity, technological disruption, and geopolitical instability. Effective chairs today prioritize fostering a culture of learning and psychological safety on boards, managing diverse director expertise through skills audits and inclusive dialogue, and navigating conflicting stakeholder interests by assessing their potential impact on the company. Additionally, chairs work closely with CEOs to manage the growing demands placed on executive leadership, balancing authority with trust to support organizational agility and resilience. This expanded role requires chairs to synthesize complex information, facilitate consensus, and actively share responsibilities with CEOs to enhance board effectiveness in a rapidly changing environment.

Additional Information

  • Source:Harvard Business Review. 2026/03, Vol. 104, Issue 2, p114
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Communication and Mass Media
  • Publication Date:2026
  • ISSN:0017-8012
  • Accession Number:191435166
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