In this episode of Governance Watch, the Board Agenda podcast, we explore the pressing issues shaping corporate governance with one of the UK’s most influential voices in the field. Our special guest, Jen Sisson, Chief Executive of the International Corporate Governance Network (ICGN), offers critical insights into the challenges and opportunities facing investors, boards, and policymakers today.

As global governance frameworks face mounting pressures, we discuss the evolving regulatory landscape, including the impact of US policy shifts, changes to UK listing rules, and broader concerns over shareholder rights and stewardship. With a wave of regulatory rollbacks threatening investor influence, Jen highlights why strong governance remains fundamental to long-term value creation—for companies, investors, and broader financial markets alike.

The conversation also delves into:

• The US and UK regulatory shifts – How governance is becoming more polarised and the risks of weakening shareholder rights.
• Investor and board relationships – Why engagement is becoming more fraught and how companies can foster more constructive dialogue.
• Audit and stewardship reforms – The role of the UK Financial Reporting Council’s efforts to streamline reporting and what investors want from audit reform.
• The future of corporate governance – Why high governance standards are crucial for market confidence and investment, and whether a "race to the bottom" in regulation could threaten corporate sustainability.

Jen brings a global perspective, comparing governance trends across Europe, the US, and Asia, and offering a pragmatic approach to balancing regulation, growth, and stewardship. She also reflects on the broader need for governance leaders to find common ground in an increasingly fragmented landscape.

As governance debates intensify, this episode provides a timely analysis of where things stand—and what needs to happen next to strengthen corporate governance for the future.

Tune in now for expert insights on governance, leadership, and the evolving role of boards in an era of uncertainty.

For more governance intelligence, visit BoardAgenda.com.