Corporate Board Member, in partnership with AlixPartners, is pleased to announce the winners of the 2023 Board Leadership Awards, recognizing outstanding achievements and exemplary leadership within the corporate governance community. The winners were selected by a distinguished panel of experienced public company directors and will be presented during the 19th annual Boardroom Summit and Peer Exchange scheduled to take place on September 13 at the Marriott Marquis in Times Square, New York.
Independent Director of the Year: John F. Lundgren
Lundgren, an esteemed independent director serving on the boards of Visa and Topgolf Callaway Brands, has been named the Independent Director of the Year. Lundgren’s exceptional contributions have not only elevated the performance of these companies but also had a significant influence on the entire corporate governance community in the United States. His extensive expertise and unwavering commitment to excellence have set a high standard for independent directors.
Courage in the Boardroom Award: Microsoft Board of Directors.
Microsoft has been awarded the Courage in the Boardroom Award for its series of long-term bets that have had a transformative impact on the company and the industry as a whole. From the strategic hiring of CEO Satya Nadella to their relentless pursuit of the cloud and significant investments in OpenAI, Microsoft’s board has demonstrated remarkable courage and vision. Moreover, they have made significant contributions by assisting in protecting Ukraine during Russia’s invasion, showcasing their commitment to global stability.
Greatest Impact on Corporate Boards: Jeffrey Sonnenfeld.
Sonnenfeld, CEO of the Chief Executive Leadership Institute at Yale, has been recognized with the Greatest Impact on Corporate Boards award for his relentless efforts in documenting and advocating for global companies to withdraw from Russia following the invasion of Ukraine. Sonnenfeld’s impactful work has played a crucial role in shaping ethical business practices and promoting corporate governance principles on a global scale.
“We are delighted to recognize these exceptional individuals and organizations who have displayed extraordinary leadership and made significant contributions to the field of corporate governance,” said Jamie Tassa, publisher of Corporate Board Member. “Their vision, courage and unwavering commitment to excellence serve as a powerful inspiration to boards and directors worldwide.”
Joe Shalleck, partner and managing director at AlixPartners, added: “The winners of the 2023 Board Leadership Awards are excellent role models for public company boards, demonstrating the pivotal role exceptional governance plays in successfully navigating through disruptions and achieving unprecedented success. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all the winners and feel deeply honored to be an integral part of this momentous initiative.”
The selection committee for the Board Leadership Awards is comprised of esteemed directors, including Lionel Nowell, lead director at Bank of America and last year’s Director of the Year honoree; Pamela Arway, chair, DaVita, director, The Hershey Co. and Iron Mountain; Larry Kellner, chair, Boeing, former lead director, Marriott International; Edward J. “Ned” Kelly, retired chair, CSX, board member, Dollar Tree, MetLife and Citizens Financial Group; Ellen Kullman, executive chair, Carbon, former CEO, DuPont, board member, Goldman Sachs, Amgen and Dell Technologies; Mike O’Neill, retired chair, Citigroup; Maria Sastre, board member, General Mills and O’Reilly Auto Parts; Nigel Travis, retired executive chair, Dunkin’ Brands, board member, Abercrombie & Fitch and Advance Auto Parts; Mike White, board member, Bank of America Merrill Lynch, former chair and CEO, DIRECTV.
For more information about the Boardroom Summit and Peer Exchange or to register for the event, please visit: https://boardmember.com/boardroomsummit/
