Journal articles
Year
2025
Abstract
First-time CEOs often assume that more frequent and transparent communication with their boards guarantees success, but research based on 90 interviews and dozens of board observations shows that it’s not volume but timing and structure—what the authors call “board synchronization”—that determines whether a CEO-board relationship flourishes or falters. By replacing exhaustive one-on-one previews with concise written briefs, sharing the stage in formal meetings to showcase the top team rather than monopolizing the discussion, and personally leading targeted post-meeting debriefs instead of outsourcing follow-ups, CEOs can avoid the misaligned power shifts and boundary confusion that erode trust. When executed in sequence—light previews, inclusive meetings, direct debriefs—this approach transforms a reactive, mistrustful cycle into a positive, virtuous one, giving CEOs the strategic leverage they need to thrive in their critical first three years.
GARG, S. et BINGHAM , C. (2025). How CEOs Can Build a Better Relationship with the Board. Harvard Business Review.