Governance Bites

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In this episode of Governance Bites, Mark Banicevich talks with Tony Dench about making the leap from executive leadership to a full-time governance career. Tony shares the realities of the transition — from losing the security of a salary to learning to run a small business, build a board portfolio, and shift from operational decision-making to strategic influence. They explore what it really takes to succeed as a professional director, the importance of patience, humility, and listening, and why strategy is never a one-day event. A must-watch for executives considering life on the other side of the board table.
 Tony Dench is an experienced board member and chair with a passion for applying governance principles in a practical and pragmatic manner. He has more than 30 years of combined international experience in leadership roles across financial services, accountancy, and law. As a leader, Tony has a proven track record of delivering impressive results through a hands-on, collaborative style that builds trusting relationships based on integrity and empathy.
 A strong advocate for purpose-driven strategy, he successfully implemented this approach as CEO of SHARE, where profits more than trebled under his leadership. Tony currently holds several governance roles, including Independent Director for Utilities Disputes and SBS Insurance, and serves on the Finance, Audit & Risk Committee for the New Zealand Law Society.
 #Governance,  #BoardsOfDirectors, #FromExecutiveToDirector, #LeadershipJourney, #ProfessionalDirector, #BoardroomInsights, #GovernanceBites

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Unlock the essentials of effective governance with Dr John Peebles, author of the insightful and intentionally non-serious book, 'Parsley on Fish'. In this episode of Governance Bites, Mark Banicevcih talks with Dr Peebles about simplifying corporate governance principles, drawing on 30 years of experience. Learn why boards can't be "decorative but useless," why financial literacy is crucial, and the importance of having a robust process for electing a Chair. Dr Peebles shares his vital 'Three Gs' rule for directors and discusses challenging prevailing governance orthodoxies. Tune in for essential, bite-sized advice for every director and aspiring leader!
 Dr. John Peebles is a highly experienced board director, governance consultant, and executive search advisor. In 2008, he was named one of the 50 most influential search consultants in the world by Business Week. His extensive board experience includes current roles as Chairman of Premier Lifestyle Villages Limited and past roles as a Director for The Broadcasting Corporation of New Zealand.
 Dr. Peebles holds a Doctorate in Business and Administration from Massey University. His doctoral research focused on corporate governance, specifically investigating who determines the board's agenda in New Zealand's public companies. He found that directors often passively accept established agenda-setting systems, and his study suggests that competence and transparent boardroom processes are more critical to good governance than factors such as director independence, age, or gender.
 #CorporateGovernance, #BoardofDirectors, #GovernanceBites, #ParsleyOnFish, #LeadershipDevelopment, #BusinessStrategy, #ThreeGs, #DirectorTips, #FinancialLiteracy, #Podcast, #YouTube, #ViralMarketing, #ExpertInterview, #Consulting

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In this episode of Governance Bites, Mark Banicevich sits down with family governance expert Sandy Kimpton to discuss a crucial topic: what is true intergenerational success?
 Discover why family governance is about more than just wealth management; it's about developing human capital and preserving your family’s legacy and values. Sandy explains the power of "operating with intentionality", providing practical steps to align family and business. Learn how a long-term family perspective differs from short-term business thinking  and why an independent voice on a family council is essential.
 Website: https://kimptonandco.co/
 Sandy Kimpton leads an organisation focused on making a positive difference to families and businesses with sustainable intergenerational outcomes.  She is Chartered member of the IOD and is a director and advisory board member of several private family enterprises.  Her executive Chartered Accountant / CFO career principally centred on multi-generational family enterprises providing an extensive backdrop for the good, bad and ugly that can occur with the business & family intersect.  Combining business, executive and governance skills together with a holistic overlay of family dynamics & values she focuses on positioning the business, family unit and the individuals to all thrive.
 #FamilyGovernance, #FamilyBusiness, #SuccessionPlanning, #LegacyPlanning, #OperatingWithIntentionality, #IntergenerationalSuccess, #FamilyValues, #LongTermThinking, #Governance, #BoardOfDirectors, #Leadership, #WealthManagement, #GovernanceBites

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In this episode, Mark Banicevich interviews Dr Richard Carson on the “3 Es” of sustainable change—Performance Efficient, Cost-Effective, and Culturally Empowered. They explore how boards of directors can apply this model to drive meaningful transformation, overcome common organisational challenges, and achieve long-term success. With practical examples from large organisations and insights from years of boardroom experience, Dr Carson reveals how the 3 Es empower leaders to balance performance, cost, and culture. Whether you’re a director, executive, or governance professional, this episode offers actionable advice on leading sustainable change that truly lasts.
Richard H. Carson is a consultant, author, and academic researcher with a 40-year career focused on organisational change management. He is the CEO of Carson & Associates, a consultancy he established in 2017 to serve public-sector and non-profit organisations. The firm specialises in making organisations more performance efficient and cost-effective through services like strategic planning, human resources, and executive coaching.
Dr Carson’s has served as a senior policy analyst for three Oregon governors and held numerous public sector management roles. His doctorate research in organisational psychology at Washington State University resulted in his trademarked “People Sustained Organizational Change Management (PSOCM) model”, a comprehensive, three-phase, 10-step framework for managing workplace transformation.
Dr Carson authored “The Book of Change” (see https://www.bookofchange.com/ for a free PDF), a practical, step-by-step guide written for business and government executives, consultants, and students navigating organisational change. Dr Carson has also served on several boards, including the Oregon Development Network, the American Planning Association in Oregon and Washington, and Kit Carson Historic Museums.
#SustainableChange, #Leadership, #Governance, #BoardOfDirectors, #OrganisationalCulture, #FutureOfWork, #BusinessTransformation, #HighPerformance, #ChangeLeadership, #CorporateGovernance, #BoardroomInsights, #DirectorAdvice, #StrategyAndCulture, #PerformanceExcellence, #CostEffective

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Even great teams need to assess their performance, and the same goes for a board. In this episode, I talk to Julie Hood about the crucial practice of board evaluations within sports organisations. We cover how to conduct a meaningful evaluation, whether through self-assessment or external review, even with limited resources. Learn what to look for, how to ensure honest feedback, and how to use the results to drive real change. This is a must-listen for any board aiming to improve its effectiveness and governance.
Links: 
Sport NZ Futures – Relevance to any organisation and sector - https://sportnz.org.nz/futures/
Sport NZ Governance Resources - https://sportnz.org.nz/sector-guidance/governance/
Strategy specific resources and content - https://sportnz.org.nz/resources/step-4-provide-strategic-leadership/
Online tutorial -good governance = https://sportnz.org.nz/resources/new-governance-101-online-training-now-live/
Julie Hood a nonprofit governance consultant with specific expertise in membership-based organisations, including sporting organisations working in complex federated structures.  She is currently an Independent Director at the Wellington North Badminton Association, gaining hands-on experience in voluntary governance and brings executive leadership experience from the public, private, and not-for-profit sectors. 
In 2024, Julie began a PhD focused on how sport CEOs can develop their governance capability to better support effective board (and their own) performance. A Chartered Member of the Institute of Directors and MBA graduate from Victoria University of Wellington, Julie has a consultancy practice helping boards and executives deliver the right results sustainably.
#governance, #leadership, #corporategovernance, #boardcraft, #decisionmaking, #makingadifference, #ceo, #governancebites, #boardroom, #director

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In this insightful conversation, Mark Banicevich speaks with Katie Beith about fresh research on governance in New Zealand listed companies. The study, Governing New Zealand Listed Companies: Navigating Shifting Winds, analysed five poorly performing firms to uncover how traditional governance metrics stack up against new measures of board effectiveness. Katie explains the data sources, highlights emerging metrics that may better predict company performance, and reflects on best-practice guidance from global and local regulators. With lessons for boards, practical takeaways for directors, and advice for those new to governance, this interview offers valuable insights for investors and governance professionals alike.
Katie Beith serves as the Head of Environment, Social and Governance (ESG) at Forsyth Barr, having joined in November 2021. In this role, she is responsible for integrating ESG principles across the firm's operations and investment processes, also supporting advisers with client-specific needs. Katie brings nearly 20 years of experience in responsible investment in the UK, Australia and New Zealand. Katie’s past roles include for the Responsible Investment Association Australasia, UN Principles for Responsible Investment, and the New Zealand Super Fund. Katie is a member of New Zealand’s Stewardship Code Governing Committee, a member of the External Reporting Board Advisory Panel, and a former board member of the Impact Investing Network.
#CorporateGovernance , #BoardLeadership , #BoardEffectiveness , #GovernanceMatters , #GoodGovernance , #InvestorInsights , #InvestmentAnalysis , #ESGInvesting , #RiskManagement , #BusinessPerformance , #NZBusiness , #NZBoards , #NZDirectors , #NZListedCompanies

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Holding a CEO accountable is a critical yet challenging duty for any board. In this episode, I talk to governance expert Julie Hood to dissect the nuances of this vital relationship within a sports organisation. They explore how boards can establish clear expectations, monitor performance, and navigate common pitfalls like micromanagement. Learn about effective performance reviews, succession planning, and the subtle art of difficult conversations. This discussion provides essential insights for boards committed to ensuring their CEO’s leadership aligns with the organization's success and values.
Links: 
Sport NZ Futures – Relevance to any organisation and sector - https://sportnz.org.nz/futures/
Sport NZ Governance Resources - https://sportnz.org.nz/sector-guidance/governance/
Strategy specific resources and content - https://sportnz.org.nz/resources/step-4-provide-strategic-leadership/
Online tutorial -good governance = https://sportnz.org.nz/resources/new-governance-101-online-training-now-live/
Julie Hood a nonprofit governance consultant with specific expertise in membership-based organisations, including sporting organisations working in complex federated structures.  She is currently an Independent Director at the Wellington North Badminton Association, gaining hands-on experience in voluntary governance and brings executive leadership experience from the public, private, and not-for-profit sectors. 
In 2024, Julie began a PhD focused on how sport CEOs can develop their governance capability to better support effective board (and their own) performance. A Chartered Member of the Institute of Directors and MBA graduate from Victoria University of Wellington, Julie has a consultancy practice helping boards and executives deliver the right results sustainably.
#governance, #leadership, #corporategovernance, #boardcraft, #decisionmaking, #makingadifference, #ceo, #governancebites, #boardroom, #director

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Boards are often misunderstood, but they are crucial for an organisation's success. In this episode, I talk to Julie Hood about the board's complex role in strategic planning for sports organisations. We discuss how boards can go beyond oversight to actively shape strategy, avoid common pitfalls, and align plans with organisational values. This episode provides practical advice on gathering diverse perspectives, monitoring implementation, and navigating the unique challenges of passionate board members. Tune in for essential insights on creating a robust and successful strategic roadmap. 
Links: 
Sport NZ Futures – Relevance to any organisation and sector - https://sportnz.org.nz/futures/
Sport NZ Governance Resources - https://sportnz.org.nz/sector-guidance/governance/
Strategy specific resources and content - https://sportnz.org.nz/resources/step-4-provide-strategic-leadership/
Online tutorial -good governance = https://sportnz.org.nz/resources/new-governance-101-online-training-now-live/
Julie Hood a nonprofit governance consultant with specific expertise in membership-based organisations, including sporting organisations working in complex federated structures.  She is currently an Independent Director at the Wellington North Badminton Association, gaining hands-on experience in voluntary governance and brings executive leadership experience from the public, private, and not-for-profit sectors. 
In 2024, Julie began a PhD focused on how sport CEOs can develop their governance capability to better support effective board (and their own) performance. A Chartered Member of the Institute of Directors and MBA graduate from Victoria University of Wellington, Julie has a consultancy practice helping boards and executives deliver the right results sustainably.
#governance, #leadership, #corporategovernance, #boardcraft, #decisionmaking, #makingadifference, #ceo, #governancebites, #boardroom, #director

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Discover how investors really measure governance quality in this thought-provoking conversation between Mark Banicevich and Katie Beith. From the most common governance metrics and where analysts source the data, to the red flags that warn of poor performance, Katie shares expert insights that link boardroom practices with financial returns. The discussion tackles disclosure gaps, the balance between quantitative and qualitative measures, and which governance factors will shape the next five years. With practical advice for New Zealand boards, this interview is essential for directors, investors, and anyone interested in how governance drives performance.
Katie Beith serves as the Head of Environment, Social and Governance (ESG) at Forsyth Barr, having joined in November 2021. In this role, she is responsible for integrating ESG principles across the firm's operations and investment processes, also supporting advisers with client-specific needs. Katie brings nearly 20 years of experience in responsible investment in the UK, Australia and New Zealand. Katie’s past roles include for the Responsible Investment Association Australasia, UN Principles for Responsible Investment, and the New Zealand Super Fund. Katie is a member of New Zealand’s Stewardship Code Governing Committee, a member of the External Reporting Board Advisory Panel, and a former board member of the Impact Investing Network.
#CorporateGovernance , #BoardLeadership , #InvestorInsights , #GovernanceMatters , #InvestmentAnalysis , #GovernanceMetrics , #SustainableFinance , #ESGInvesting , #RiskManagement , #BoardDiversity , #GoodGovernance , #Directors , #BoardOfDirectors , #NZBoards , #FinanceProfessionals , #BusinessLeadership , #GovernanceBites

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In this engaging interview, Mark Banicevich sits down with Katie Beith to unpack the fast-evolving world of ESG—environmental, social, and governance. From how analysts measure ESG quality to the governance weaknesses that undermine credibility, Katie explains how ESG factors shape investment decisions and influence company performance. The conversation tackles whether ESG means trading returns for values, the role of governance in ensuring commitments are real, and what boards must do now to prepare for rising scrutiny. With a look ahead to the future of ESG investing, this discussion is packed with insights for directors, investors, and governance professionals.
Katie Beith serves as the Head of Environment, Social and Governance (ESG) at Forsyth Barr, having joined in November 2021. In this role, she is responsible for integrating ESG principles across the firm's operations and investment processes, also supporting advisers with client-specific needs. Katie brings nearly 20 years of experience in responsible investment in the UK, Australia and New Zealand. Katie’s past roles include for the Responsible Investment Association Australasia, UN Principles for Responsible Investment, and the New Zealand Super Fund. Katie is a member of New Zealand’s Stewardship Code Governing Committee, a member of the External Reporting Board Advisory Panel, and a former board member of the Impact Investing Network.
#ESGInvesting , #SustainableFinance , #ResponsibleInvesting , #ImpactInvesting , #SustainableBusiness , #CorporateGovernance , #BoardLeadership , #GovernanceMatters , #BoardOfDirectors , #GoodGovernance , #BusinessPerformance , #RiskManagement , #FutureOfBusiness , #InvestorInsights , #NZBusiness , #NZBoards , #NZDirectors