The Handbook of Board Governance, 2nd Edition

9Board Behaviors: How Women Directors Influence Decision Outcomes:

Dr. Mary Halton

Managing Director of Align Consulting Ltd.

Introduction

It's very hard to prove that we make better decisions, but I've definitely seen groupthink, and stopped that (nonexecutive director).

On the people side, I would be most supported and challenged by the female board member, simply because I think she gets it in terms of its importance maybe a little bit more (CEO).

The comments above, taken from the experiences of directors in a study by Halton (2019), highlight some of the areas where women create value around the board table. Drawing on the study, this chapter examines how women deliver on their board roles and what impact this has on strategic decision-making. To begin with, the study is placed within a wider literature on board behaviors, and the research approach is outlined. Findings from the study are then set out, looking at how directors prepare and exercise independent judgment and how these behaviors support constructive challenge and wider contributions at the board table. The positive implications for strategic decision-making are then discussed and summary conclusions drawn.

Background and Context

Boards are the top decision-making bodies in organizations worldwide. Charged with promoting long-term sustainable success (FRC 2018), the role of the board is multifaceted and demanding, and includes setting the purpose, values, and strategy of the organization, guiding culture, ...