To para phrase, Samuel Goldwyn, one of America’s great Movie Industry Titans:

- “I don’t want any “yes” people around here. I want everyone to tell me the truth even if it costs them their jobs.”

The primary role of the Certified Board Advisor™ is actually quite simple, yet vital.

In the eyes of the American Institute of Certified Board Advisors, it comes down to 4 primary functions:

  • Directors must Direct, being the proactive voice of reason
  • Ensure competent decision-making
  • Defend against corruption, abuse of power and mismanagement
  • Prepare to deal with the unexpected crisis

You don’t need to know everything but…… Broad Insight, Skill and Character is Essential Your job as a CBA is to advise, guide, shape, direct and decide. While knowing everything about the nuts and bolts of any organization is unrealistic, having the background to understand and deal with the broad spectrum of challenges facing the modern enterprise is essential to sound leadership.


“Suppose that, instead of going along for the ride, boards had steered us in the right direction by asking tough questions, second-guessing shortsighted strategies, and exercising leadership.”

- “Money for Nothing” by John Gillespe and David Zweig


Insight and Skill CBA’s Ongoing Mission…… Proactive Directorship is Vital To help management recognize the need to address tough issues before they become acute. We are convinced, based on our experience, that the future of any organization is bleak if it does not deal proactively with both people and organizational challenges. A proactive Certified Board Advisor will fulfill the Director’s vital responsibilities by:

  • Guiding an organization through the challenges being faced
  • Recognizing the sure-signs of trouble ahead
  • Maintaining the focus on a healthy organization

The American Institute of Certified Board Advisors Role…..CBA Certification The AICBA certifies each CBA through a rigorous evaluation program. Our certification process ensures each CBA has a rich understanding of the current business climate, corporate governance, as well as a foundational knowledge of legal, financial, regulatory and strategic issues. In this way, the CBA can make a critical impact on the enterprise by assuming the role of an informed, inquisitive outside/insider that is not afraid to ask tough questions of the CEO and the management group along with making tough decisions.

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