Boards Under Pressure: Succession, Activism, and AI Risks

Only one in four governance leaders say succession planning is a top priority, even as activists press for change and many CEOs stay in their roles longer than ever.  In this episode, host Steve Odland sits down with Bonnie Gwin, Vice Chair and Global Co-Managing Partner, CEO and Board Practice, Heidrick & Struggles, and a leading voice on governance and board effectiveness.  Together, they unpack the risks of neglecting succession, explore best practices for director refreshment, and explain why agility and resilience are now must-have CEO traits. The conversation also highlights how boards are grappling with black swans, geopolitical turmoil, cybersecurity, and the uncertain governance of AI.  For more from The Conference Board:  Are Boards Effective? Here’s What OurLatest Research Says  Corporate Citizenship in Transition: Lessons from 2025  Executive Compensation in a Disruptive World