In the Classroom II
Program Helps Indian Board Members Rise to New Challenges

With changes in the regulatory environment, the restructuring of diversified conglomerates toward their core competencies, and increased global competition, companies around the world are turning to mergers, acquisitions, and alliances to gain access to new markets—and India is at the top of the target list.

As Indian companies compete increasingly in global markets, the demands of corporate governance are rising. Tighter restrictions and an aging pool of independent directors will lead to the appointment of many new directors, but these new board members need to be prepared for this role. There will be an acute need for the education of independent directors in India.

The Wharton School, a global leader in senior executive education, and Egon Zehnder International, a firm specializing in board consulting and building leadership teams, have joined forces to offer an executive education program to address these issues. The program, Governing the Corporation: Global Perspectives in the Indian Context, which will be held in Mumbai from March 7–9, 2007, brings insights from global best practices and research, specifically tailored to the demands of the Indian business context.

The curriculum for this pioneering program has been developed jointly by the Wharton School, Egon Zehnder International, and members of the Indian business community. Wharton faculty members will use lectures, small discussion groups, and case studies that highlight both troubled and successful boards around the world.

The program will help participants understand the essential questions that independent directors need to ask management and outside experts regarding financing, disclosure, governance, succession planning, compensation, and litigation. It will help participants to:

  • Evaluate the role of the board in strategy development, valuation, compliance, and evolution.

  • Develop strategic frameworks to enable boards to navigate through today's complex business environment.

  • Learn about the ethical, fiduciary, legal, and social responsibilities of an independent director; the meaning of "independence;" and the role of the audit committee.

  • Develop strategies for succession planning and executive compensation.

The program is designed for current and potential corporate board members of SEBI-listed companies, as well as private companies that are likely to be listed, who would like to enhance their capabilities. Senior executives who are likely to join corporate boards in the near future will also benefit from attending. Executives from the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) countries will find the program content relevant, as many of the topics discussed in this program would have implications beyond the borders of India.

The program will be held at the Taj Mahal Hotel in Mumbai, India. Prices are subject to change. Price does not include lodging. Program consultants are available to provide more information on course specifics and discuss how this program might meet your needs. Please contact them by telephone at +1.215.898.1776 or by e-mail.

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