Executive sessions are used by boards to discuss sensitive issues that require greater respect for privacy and board independence. These discussions allow participants to talk openly and freely without the pressure of public opinion, and arrive at decisions based on all perspectives. The article explains the importance of executive sessions and how they differ from board meetings. It also explains the best practices for making them successful.

The presiding officer of the board or meeting chair opens the session by welcoming everyone who is present. Then, they provide an explanation of the purpose and nature of the discussion by the CEO or another board member in charge of the agenda. This helps https://houstonsmday.com/virtual-data-rooms-a-secure-solution-for-confidential-healthcare-data/ the board understand the context of the issues that will be discussed, and helps avoid confusion or misinterpretations.

Executive sessions are typically reserved for board members only and can be held either before or following the board meeting. Board Source (formerly known as the National Center for Nonprofit Boards) however, notes that other stakeholders can be invited to an executive session for part or the entire time in the event that they require professional advice or make findings.

It’s important to remember that, just as any other board meeting, executive sessions should be focused on addressing items for the benefit of the company. Focusing on the agenda of the board will ensure that participants are active and keep the meeting from becoming unnecessarily contentious or a platform for spreading gossip.