The emphasis on diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) in the boardroom is shaping up to be a permanent reframing of all that boards do and, more broadly, how companies approach corporate governance writ large. Though this emphasis has been steadily increasing over the past several years, the events of 2020 have accelerated ongoing discussions and efforts, and public boards should expect increased pressure from stakeholders — if not explicit action taken against them — if real progress is not achieved.
I had the pleasure of assisting Rusty O’Kelley with this article, published by Directors & Boards.