Clockwatchers need not apply

Audit committee chairs are at the centre of corporate governance and the pressures only seem to be mounting, especially in the US.

Search specialists have been looking hard at the changing nature of the role and make a few observations.

Cybersecurity, data privacy, AI governance, regulatory compliance, trade and tariff volatility, geopolitical disruption and capital allocation are all part of the job now.

This quote stands out though: “This is no longer something you can do on the margins of another demanding role.” Step forward the full-time audit committee chair. Welcome.

Gender agenda

So, it is a well-documented fact that former Canadian PM Justin Trudeau has his admirers. After all, the man looks good in a suit.

But there are other reasons, not least his effect on corporate culture. In 2015, Trudeau announced a “gender-balanced” cabinet and new research finds that, since then, Canadian firms have increased female representation relative to US counterparts.

Business boffins Husna Memon and Amir Rubin conclude: “This study underscores the role of political leadership as a catalyst for reducing gender disparities on corporate boards.”

They add: “Trudeau’s appointment of a gender-balanced cabinet and consistent public advocacy around diversity created salient normative signals that shaped private-sector expectations and behaviour.” Smartly dressed and smart thinking.

The talk in York

One to watch over the coming weeks—a clash over the venue for Aviva’s AGM on 6 May.

Instead of London, the company has moved the event to York, which has raised some concerns.

Shareholder advisers Minerva Analytics write in a blog: “Relocating the AGM to York changes the dynamic. While regional venues can broaden engagements in principle, accessibility cuts both ways.

“A location that is harder for most shareholders to reach, combined with an early start, is likely to reduce physical turnout materially.

“Lower turnout is not neutral. It compresses debate and shifts the balance towards a more managed experience.”

In its notice, Aviva offers no reason for York but there are those who believe it may be due to the sexism CEO Amanda Blanc experienced from some shareholders in 2022.

In the firm’s AGM notice, Aviva invites shareholders to submit questions.

“We also believe it is important that those attending the AGM behave with courtesy and respect for others and, therefore, unacceptable behaviour will not be tolerated at the meeting and will be dealt with appropriately.”

Consider yourselves rightly warned.