In this episode of The Jasper Blueprint podcast, Bessi engages with Paul Smith, the founder of Future Directors, to explore governance as a competitive edge in small to medium-sized businesses. Focusing on future-fit boards that manage responsibilities across all stakeholders, the conversation moves beyond the traditional view of governance as mere compliance. Paul Smith, a seasoned board director and futurist, shares their expertise on how governance can be transformed into a powerful competitive advantage by integrating it into core business practices. The episode highlights the pivotal role governance plays in decision-making, particularly in privately-owned businesses where it is often overlooked. Through discussions on stakeholder engagement, the integration of AI, and the evolving nature of board roles, this episode serves as a comprehensive guide to leveraging governance for strategic success.
Also in this episode:
- Effective governance includes diversity of thought, curiosity, and ongoing education for all involved participants in board settings.
- Stakeholder mapping reveals overlooked perspectives that significantly influences decision-making and strategic direction.
- Emphasising fit-for-purpose governance structures significantly improves the functionality and inclusivity of board and decision-making processes.
About Paul Smith:
Paul Smith, known as the Board Futurist, is one of the leading global thinkers in corporate governance, renowned for his expertise in impact governance, board effectiveness, inclusive decision-making, and the use of technology, particularly Artificial Intelligence, in boardrooms. As the founder of Future Directors, a governance technology platform, Paul is dedicated to empowering boards and directors through affordable, high-quality education, resources, and community. An award-winning author of Right Seat Right Table and host of the popular Future Directors Podcast, Paul is currently working on his second book, The Artificially Intelligent Boardroom.
Resources Paul recommended in the episode:
Future Directors Courses
- The two mentioned were: Building & Applying Governance Frameworks, and Managing your Board Processes.
Books
- Right Seat Right Table. https://www.amazon.com.au/Right-Seat-Table-Outsiders-Securing-ebook/dp/B07RXN5Y69?ref_=ast_author_dp
- Effective Directors: The Right Questions to Ask https://www.amazon.com.au/Effective-Directors-Right-Questions-Ask/dp/1032062045
Podcast
- OMG: One Minute Governance: https://open.spotify.com/show/6kMufvaOIcVxsye01qqqvB?si=a2ad41d136944a9a
- Future Directors: https://open.spotify.com/show/0f2k2e4j6ykC54p0fNc78K?si=0d860ab581284a34
Connect with Paul
LinkedIn: futurepaulsmith
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About Bessi Graham:
With nearly 25 years’ of experience working with business owners, governments, and large funding bodies to merge money and meaning, my experience spans from the grassroots of sitting in the dirt working with business owners across the Pacific Islands through to the United Nations in Geneva. This has given me an unparalleled perspective.
This Podcast Is Produced, Engineered & Edited By: Simplified Impact