Drawing on their extensive boardroom experience, Diane Smith-Gander and Peter O'Brien discuss the importance of aligning board and management on strategic goals, developing clear and measurable plans, and maintaining a balance between oversight and operational autonomy.
They offer practical guidance on how boards can better understand market perception, evaluate alternative strategic options, and link strategy to KPIs and executive accountability. The session underscores the board’s role as a strategic partner—supporting management while safeguarding the organisation’s long-term value.
Diane Smith-Gander AO is the non-executive Chair of Zip Co Limited and also chairs Perenti, HBF Health, and CEDA. A leader in governance and gender equity, she holds an MBA and Honorary Doctorate from UWA, where she is also an adjunct professor and advisory board chair. Diane is a Fellow of AICD and the Governance Institute.
Peter L. O’Brien is a leading advisor to Boards, Chairs and CEOs with deep expertise in board effectiveness and governance. As the former Global Operations Director of Russell Reynolds Associates, and having also previously led their Asia Pacific region, he has a deep understanding of global markets and the international implications as it relates to governance and the broader collaboration between boards and management.