Good decisions require good information. Directors often blame poor information when outcomes turn bad. So naturally the board pack has come under increased regulatory scrutiny.

Weak board packs place your firm at risk of fines, redress and reputational damage.

With the FCA also focusing on personal accountability at the senior level (and with the quality of board packs the responsibility of directors), it is no surprise there is a demand for higher standards.

The Course Agenda

What are the standards?
• International and European developments on this topic
• Review of the legal framework (Companies Act, FRC etc.)
• Get the standards and view of the regulator(s), including the latest insights from the new Prudential and Conduct regulators
• What topics you must cover during the year?
• Complementary roles and responsibilities of the Company Secretary and Chairman

What should you include?
• Schedule of matters reserved for the board
• Balance financial performance, operational and control issues
• Develop a checklist to capture the full agenda
• Co-ordinate the content of Committee packs versus that for full Board meetings

Perfecting your board papers
• Learn the use and value of templates
• Get examples of templates for different purposes
• How best can you implement standardised reporting?
• Agenda setting strategies to ensure a logical order and appropriate timing
• Make sure information is received on time

Identify and overcome common problem
• Plan ahead to better anticipate problems
• Agree clear standards for directors, board participants and submitters of information
• When are board presentations helpful (and when are they not)?
• How do you best manage and follow up actions?