Nasdaq Center for Board Excellence Announces Launch of Advisory Council

Article by Vanessa Mesics, Head of Director Experience, Co-Lead of the Nasdaq Center for Board Excellence, Nasdaq

Introducing the Nasdaq Center for Board Excellence Advisory Council

The Nasdaq Center for Board Excellence (the Center) is excited to announce the launch of our Advisory Council. This marks a monumental milestone in our ongoing commitment to elevating board performance and corporate governance.

The Purpose of the Advisory Council

The Nasdaq Center for Board Excellence Advisory Council (the Council) has a clear and ambitious mission: to improve the effectiveness of boards and their leaders across various sectors. The Council aims to assist the Center in identifying best practices in governance and board performance, and to equip board members and leaders with insights to navigate the complex and ever-changing business landscape.

Leaders and Members of the Council

John Zecca, Chief Legal, Risk, and Regulatory Officer, Nasdaq, is at the helm of the Advisory Council. Passionate about corporate governance and risk, John’s vision is set to guide the Council towards meaningful outcomes.

The Council comprises esteemed board members and leaders that bring a wealth of knowledge and experience across industries, disciplines, and jurisdictions. Some of these members include:

• Herman Bulls, Vice Chairman, Americas, JLL
• Joan Conley, Senior Advisor on Corporate Governance and ESG Programs, Nasdaq
• Mauro da Cunha, Independent Director on multiple boards and Senior Advisor
• Joe Hurd, Independent Director on multiple boards and Operating Partner, SOSV, LLC
• Jesús Mantas, Independent Director on multiple boards and Global Managing Partner, IBM Consulting
• Kristen Pederson, Board Member and Retired EY Partner
• Lisa Shalett, Independent Board Director, Corporate Advisor, and Entrepreneur
• Margaret Smyth, Public and Private Company Director and U.S. SEC Financial Expert

Contributions and Expectations from Council Members

The Council members have pledged to guide the strategic direction of the Nasdaq Center for Board Excellence and to share their unique insights and best practices. They will play a crucial role in developing resources and frameworks that enhance board performance and decision-making.

The Nasdaq Center for Board Excellence: Shaping the Future of Corporate Governance

As we celebrate the launch of our Advisory Council, we also look forward to welcoming four additional members later this year. Their inclusion will further diversify the Council’s expertise.

Together, we aim to usher in a new era of board effectiveness by addressing issues across the global corporate governance landscape. The Nasdaq Center for Board Excellence is eager to embark on this journey and to see the positive impact the Advisory Council will have on today’s business environment and the future of boardroom leadership.

About the Nasdaq Center for Board Excellence

The Nasdaq Center for Board Excellence convenes board members, executive leaders, governance professionals, and educators committed to advancing excellence in the boardroom. The Center stands at the intersection of innovative thinking and practical solutions, serving as a hub for ongoing board education and collaboration.