In the current era, where environmental awareness and technological advancements are paramount, the roles of Chairs and board members are increasingly critical. Their decisions not only shape organisational strategies but also impact societal and environmental welfare.

Board diversity, a subject of ongoing debate, offers numerous benefits including enhanced decision-making, innovative thinking, and the prevention of groupthink. However, the effectiveness of a diverse board often hinges on the quality of board discussions and the Chair’s ability to facilitate these interactions.

Recent surveys reveal that only about half of board members perceive their boards as psychologically safe environments.

The Chair’s role is crucial in promoting open discussions on pressing issues like sustainability, climate action, and responsible AI. A significant challenge for Chairs and Boards is to cultivate a boardroom atmosphere where members feel comfortable to speak freely, take risks, and admit mistakes without fearing negative consequences to their status or careers. Establishing such psychological safety is essential for strategic, effective decision-making within the boardroom.

Organised by the INSEAD Corporate Governance Centre and Boards Impact Forum, in collaboration with Chapter Zero and the Climate Governance Initiative Hong Kong, the Webinar and Digital Dialogue will delve into the myths and misconceptions of psychological safety and the critical role that Chairs play in fostering a safe environment for board members to feel empowered to raise questions, challenge assumptions and the status quo.

Join us for an interactive exchange to hear INSEAD Professor Stanislav Shekshnia share the framework of psychological safety in creating positive team dynamics, what research reveals about the practices adopted by board chairs in laying the foundations of trust that build better engagement with board members.

Following the academic presentation, there will be a panel discussion with Nicolas Allen, Katarina Bonde and Rolf Pfeiffer, three distinguished Chairs who will comment and share their experiences and observations on the practices and pitfalls concerning chairs and their influence on building a culture of psychological safety.