AICD  &  Governance Institute  report:  Key  learnings  from the COVID-19 crisis 

The AICD and the Governance Institute of Australia have collaborated to produce a  new  report Governing Through a Crisis: Lessons from COVID-19 that explores  the impact of the pandemic on board practices and  how the lessons from the crisis can help  boards future-proof  their governance practices.

Almost every aspect of our lives has been disrupted by COVID-19, and the boardroom has been no exception. Boards have changed  the way  they  operate, their focus, and how they govern.

To capture these shifts, the AICD and the Governance Institute have partnered to produce a  new report that takes an in-depth look at the impact of the pandemic on board processes and how the learnings from the crisis can help boards improve their governance practices.

Lessons  from the pandemic 

With input from directors and company secretaries  across a range of sectors, the Governing Through a Crisis  report identifies key learnings  and recommendations to help organisations ensure they are better prepared for future crises.

The report looks at:

• The foundations that must be in place for the board and company secretary to add value in a  crisis;
• Effective crisis  and continuity  planning – what it  looks  like  in practice;
• The impact and future of virtual meetings; and
• How  the pandemic has changed  the  way  boards  engage  with stakeholders.

Recommendations on the path forward   

To help organisations develop stronger resilience and navigate their way out of the pandemic, the report also offers:

• Recommendations that address each of the key learnings;
• Practical tips to help boards operate and govern in the new environment;
• Insights from prominent directors; and
• Case studies exploring the virtual and hybrid AGM experience.

How to use this report 

The intention is  for  boards, management and other governance and risk professionals from across all sectors to use this  report  to reflect on the learnings  from this  devastating situation and ensure their governance practices are fit  for the future.