Global Leaders at Board Stewardship’s Landmark Event Advocate Steward Leadership
Global Board Icons and governance experts convened for a landmark event at the historic Bombay Stock Exchange in Mumbai on Tuesday, November 19, 2024.
At Board Stewardship’s inspiring conference titled “Boards as Stewards of Sustainability,” In his keynote address, Rajeev Peshawaria, CEO of Stewardship Asia Centre, Singapore, introduced the concept of “Steward Leadership” and its critical role in enabling sustainable growth. Globally recognised Keynote Speaker, Helle Bank Jørgensen, CEO of Competent Boards, Canada, underscored the impact of a global network of Board Directors in driving climate action and ESG transformation.
Across sessions, experts discussed the Board Stewardship that involves the responsible management and oversight of a company by its Board Of Directors, in particular elaborating the critical role of Independent Directors. It focuses on acting in the organisation’s best interests, ensuring strategic decisions align with long-term goals, managing risks, and maintaining ethical governance. Ultimately, board stewardship is about safeguarding the organisation’s success while considering its impact on stakeholders and society.
The day began with an engaging welcome note by Vikesh Wallia, Managing Director & Editor of Board Stewardship. He highlighted the organisation’s remarkable progress in just a few years, from participating in prestigious global research projects on Board governance to representing the Indian board community at top forums worldwide.
A keynote address by Shailesh Haribhakti, a celebrated Chartered Accountant and Chairman of the Advisory Board at Board Stewardship, set the tone for the event. Haribhakti emphasised the critical need to incorporate AI and quantum computing into boardroom decision-making for future-proof organisations. Kamala Kantharaj, Chief Regulatory Officer at BSE, followed with a special address on the evolving regulatory landscape, underscoring the role of governance in driving corporate accountability.
The conference featured thought-provoking panel discussions tackling pressing issues. The first, moderated by Shailesh Haribhakti, discussed “Embedding Sustainability within Organisational Culture,” with insights from Jørgensen and Peshawaria on creating values-driven leadership. The second panel explored “The Role of Boards in Addressing Climate Change and Environmental Sustainability.” Experts like Anirban Ghosh, Rupam Baruah, Roopa Satish, and Sudhir Hoshing shared actionable strategies for board-led environmental initiatives. The final panel turned the spotlight on “Driving Social Impact and Corporate Responsibility through Board Leadership,” with Shalini Singh, Sarita Bahl, and Seemantinee Khot discussing how inclusive and ethical board leadership can create transformative social outcomes.
A highlight of the day was the release of a research report by Sunil Puri, Head of Research at Stewardship Asia Centre, which was followed by a lively fireside chat with Vikesh Wallia.
Board Stewardship proudly conferred the prestigious title of “Board Laureate of Board Stewardship” on Amisha Vora, Chairperson and Managing Director of Prabhudas Lilladher Group, during the event. This honour celebrates her role as a torchbearer for inspiring transformative leadership in corporate India as a celebrated Board Director.
The event also recognised the achievements of elite members and fellows of Board Stewardship during a ceremonial convocation, acknowledging their contributions to advancing excellence in governance.
The conference concluded with a valedictory address by Shailesh Haribhakti, who stressed the importance of collaborative efforts in building resilient, future-ready organisations. Krishna Tewari, Executive Director of Board Stewardship, closed the day with a heartfelt vote of thanks, recognising the invaluable contributions of speakers, participants, and organisers. Tewari also extended a warm invitation to attendees for the upcoming “Directors’ Huddle” in Bengaluru on December 18, 2024.
