Behind Closed Doors: The Boardroom - How to Get In, Get On and Make A Difference

Simon Laffin's book "Behind Closed Doors" provides insights into boardroom issues and offers over 150 tips for better decision-making and board director engagement. He argues for more female and ethnic minority directors and advocates for evidence-based and tested regulation focused on effective governance. The book appeals to a wide range of individuals interested in the boardroom, business, and governance.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 302 pages
Publication date: 02 September 2021
Publisher: Chronos Publishing

Behind Closed Doors is a unique book that delves into the inner workings of boardrooms and provides a comprehensive understanding of what happens behind closed doors. Author Simon Laffin, with his extensive thirty years of board experience, offers a firsthand account of board issues and challenges that he has encountered throughout his career. He offers over 150 practical tips and strategies for board directors, aimed at improving decision-making and enhancing their participation in boardroom debates. Laffin does not shy away from difficult topics, covering a range of issues such as responding to hostile takeovers, removing underperforming directors, and addressing sex in the boardroom. He strongly advocates for increased diversity on boards, specifically calling for more female and ethnic minority directors. He identifies the lack of board experience and knowledge as a significant barrier for underrepresented groups, and believes that this book can play a crucial role in addressing this issue.

The book is divided into several chapters, each focusing on a different aspect of being a director. It covers topics such as how to get appointed to a board, how to develop relationships with other directors, how to make effective decisions, and how to understand financial statements. Laffin provides practical insights and anecdotes to illustrate his points, making the book engaging and relatable. He also offers advice on setting executive pay, handling shareholders, and developing a board culture that promotes effective governance.

One of the key strengths of Behind Closed Doors is its emphasis on evidence-based and tested regulation. Laffin challenges the prevailing politically-driven, populist approach to rule changes and advocates for a more evidence-based and tested regulatory framework. He believes that boards can make a bigger contribution to better governance than the plethora of corporate regulation that is being developed and implemented globally. The book demands a rigorous approach to regulation, focusing on outcomes and ensuring that regulations are implemented in a way that promotes long-term sustainability and growth.

In conclusion, Behind Closed Doors is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the inner workings of boardrooms and the role of board directors in shaping the success of organizations. With his extensive experience and practical insights, Simon Laffin provides valuable advice and strategies for board directors, helping them to navigate the complex dynamics of the boardroom and make a meaningful impact on the governance of their organizations. The book's emphasis on evidence-based and tested regulation, diversity, and effective governance makes it a valuable resource for directors, policymakers, and stakeholders alike

Weight: 518g
Dimension: 151 x 230 x 31 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781914529047