Training for Board Affairs Managers

Effective governance is a cornerstone of organizational success, and the Board of Directors plays a critical role in steering strategy, oversight, and accountability. Behind every high-functioning board is a capable and organized Board Affairs Manager — a professional who ensures that governance structures are upheld, meetings run smoothly, compliance is maintained, and board members are well-supported.

This training program is designed to equip current and aspiring Board Affairs Managers with the knowledge, tools, and practical skills necessary to confidently manage all aspects of board operations. From planning and facilitating meetings to maintaining legal documentation and fostering strong board-member relationships, this course provides a comprehensive foundation in modern board governance practices.

Training for Board Affairs Managers Course Objectives

·        The principles of corporate governance and board dynamics

·        Key responsibilities and workflows of the Board Affairs function

·        Best practices in managing board meetings, compliance, and records

·        Communication strategies and board engagement

·        Digital tools and technologies that streamline board management

By the end of this program, attendees will be prepared to support their boards with professionalism, discretion, and strategic foresight — adding value to their organizations and contributing to effective leadership at the highest levels.

Course Outline

Module 1: Introduction to Corporate Governance and Board Dynamics

• Role of the board of directors
• Principles of corporate governance
• Board composition, roles, and responsibilities
• Legal and fiduciary duties of directors
• Relationship between board and executive management

Module 2: Roles and Responsibilities of a Board Affairs Manager

• Key duties and expectations
• Supporting the Chairperson and CEO
• Managing confidential and sensitive information
• Board calendar and strategic planning support
• Liaising with board committees

Module 3: Board Meetings Management

• Planning and scheduling meetings
• Preparing and distributing board packs
• Drafting agendas in collaboration with leadership
• Minute-taking best practices and templates
• Follow-up and resolution tracking
• Managing virtual/hybrid meetings

Module 4: Governance Documentation and Compliance

• Corporate records management
• Maintaining board charters, bylaws, and policies
• Filing statutory returns (as per jurisdiction)
• Board evaluations and compliance tracking
• Regulatory frameworks (e.g., SEC, Companies Act, Sarbanes-Oxley)

Module 5: Board Member Engagement and Relations

• Onboarding and orientation of new directors
• Managing director training and development
• Communication protocols and etiquette
• Conflict of interest disclosures
• Succession planning support

Module 6: Tools and Technology for Board Management

• Board portals and document management tools (e.g., Diligent, BoardEffect)
• Cybersecurity for board data
• Digital signatures and workflow automation
• Collaboration and secure communication tools

Module 7: Risk, Ethics, and Confidentiality

• Understanding risk oversight by the board
• Ethics and conduct for board operations
• Managing crises and special meetings
• Confidentiality protocols and legal considerations

Module 8: Practical Scenarios and Case Studies

• Case studies of board management challenges
• Simulated board meeting
• Minute-writing and review workshop
• Conflict resolution and governance failure examples