Chairperson Succession: Competences, Moderators, and Disclosure

This book empirically analyses the competences (input), moderators (process), and disclosure (output) of board chair succession practices for publicly listed organisations in Switzerland. The chair of the board of directors holds a unique organisational position, and it is essential that they have rational economic and socio-emotional skills. Previous research on board governance has primarily focused on the dyadic relationship between board composition and organisational performance, but the research focus should go beyond a pure output/performance paradigm.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 261 pages
Publication date: 19 April 2023
Publisher: Springer-Verlag Berlin and Heidelberg GmbH & Co. KG

This open-access book conducts an empirical analysis of board chair succession practices in publicly listed organizations in Switzerland, with a particular focus on the competencies (input), moderators (process), and disclosure (output) involved. As the primus inter pares (Latin for first among equals), the chair of the board of directors holds a unique organizational position, and it is essential that the chair possesses rational economic and socio-emotional skills to fulfill the non-transferable duties mandated by Article 716a revCO. However, the process of structuring the search for a chairperson remains unclear, stemming from both legal and business perspectives. On the one hand, ambiguity arises from the rarity and lack of specificity in succession-related formal regulations (hard law) or best-governance principles (soft law). On the other hand, there is a need for greater attention and diligence in the selection process, particularly from a business perspective.

Previous research on board governance has primarily centered on the dyadic relationship between board composition and organizational performance (board effectiveness research). However, given the dynamic nature of board succession, it is crucial to expand the research focus beyond a pure output/performance paradigm.

The book aims to address these gaps by examining the various practices and strategies employed by publicly listed organizations in Switzerland to select and transition their board chairs. It seeks to understand the factors that influence these practices, including legal considerations, corporate governance frameworks, and stakeholder perspectives. Through a comprehensive analysis of empirical data, the book provides valuable insights into the dynamics and complexities of board chair succession, offering practical recommendations for policymakers, board members, and executives.

In conclusion, this open-access book is a valuable resource for scholars, practitioners, and policymakers interested in understanding the dynamics of board chair succession in publicly listed organizations in Switzerland. By examining the competencies, moderators, and disclosure of board chair succession practices, it contributes to the existing literature on board governance and offers practical insights for improving the effectiveness and sustainability of organizational leadership.

Weight: 374g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783658408169
Edition number: 1st ed. 2023