Executive sessions are utilized by boards to tackle sensitive issues that require more autonomy and privacy. These discussions allow participants the freedom to express their opinions freely and openly without being influenced by public opinion. The article examines the purpose of executive sessions, the ways in which they differ from regular board meetings and the best practices to https://houstonsmday.com/virtual-data-rooms-a-secure-solution-for-confidential-healthcare-data/ enable them to succeed.

The president of the board or meeting chair starts the session by welcoming all present. The CEO or person on the board who is responsible for the agenda will then give an overview of the topic and the purpose of the discussion. This allows the board to be aware of the context for the issues to be discussed and prevents confusion or misinterpretations.

Typically, executive sessions are exclusive to board members and may be held prior to, in the middle of or after a scheduled board meeting. However, Board Source (formerly the National Center for Nonprofit Boards) states that other stakeholders, including the chief executive, select senior staff or professional advisors, can be invited to attend for part or all of an executive session if they are required to make findings or provide professional guidance.

It’s important to keep in mind that, just as any other board meeting, executive sessions should be focused on addressing issues to benefit the company. Keeping the focus on the board’s business will ensure that the attendees are active and keep the meeting from becoming unnecessarily contentious or a platform for spreading gossip.