Boards can either conduct their own self-evaluation or engage a facilitator. However, both approaches come with significant challenges. A board is not just a team and cannot be treated as one. Unlike traditional teams with clear hierarchies, boards operate within complex power dynamics, implicit norms, and shared, yet sometimes ambiguous, responsibilities.
Self-evaluations often risk lacking depth, failing to address unspoken issues, generating excessive tension, or becoming overly reliant on the facilitator’s perspective on governance. Differing expectations about the purpose of the evaluation can further complicate the process. Additionally, decisions regarding who should be involved, why, and when can either help uncover critical insights or unintentionally reinforce existing tensions within the board.
This exclusive two-day colloquium will explore these challenges and introduce structured methodologies informed by theory, research, and lived experience. We will examine how boards can move beyond surface-level reviews to meaningful reflections that drive real governance improvements. Whether self-led or facilitated, a well-designed board evaluation can be transformative, but only when grounded in a deep understanding of board dynamics, power structures, and learning processes.
Designed for Board Members, Board Coaches, Board Secretaries, Advisors, and Senior Governance Officers, this colloquium will offer cutting-edge insights, research-based best practices, and interactive discussions led by internationally recognized experts.
For board coaches, this event offers essential knowledge to ensure self-evaluations drive meaningful improvements and foster boardroom excellence.
Expert Speakers
Prof. dr. Jaap Winter
A leading corporate governance scholar (INSEAD, UvA, VU) and practitioner, Jaap chairs multiple boards, including Royal Schiphol Group and the Van Gogh Museum. His expertise lies in boardroom dynamics, governance structures, and legal frameworks.
Prof. dr. Erik van de Loo
An expert in organizational behavior and leadership at INSEAD, Erik specializes in system-psychodynamic approaches to leadership development, unconscious boardroom dynamics, and governance psychology.
Dr. Marilieke Engbers
A governance researcher and evaluator, Marilieke’s groundbreaking work on boardroom culture and unspoken influences has shaped governance practices across various sectors. She is a leading voice in governance oversight and boardroom effectiveness.
Dr. Agota Szabo
A governance academic and board advisor, Agota specializes in governance best practices, board structuring, and director performance evaluations. She leads initiatives to enhance supervisory board effectiveness in the nonprofit sector.
Prof. dr. Svetlana Khapova
An organizational behavior scholar, Svetlana’s research explores executive leadership, board decision-making, and governance effectiveness. She is a leading figure in business leadership education and executive development.
Why Attend?
- Gain insights from top experts in board governance and leadership.
- Discover the latest methodologies for effective board self-evaluations.
- Enhance your ability to lead, coach, or assess boards with confidence.
- Network with governance professionals committed to board excellence.
Registration Details
📅 Dates: 22-23 May 2025
📍 Location: Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam
💰 Fee: €2500
👉 Registration Form