For boards, disruptive change, information overload, and the rising severity of operational risks make it harder to decide what deserves sustained attention. That’s why choosing where to focus the board’s time has become a strategic imperative for the board chair and CEO — and is the defining driver of an effective board agenda.

On this episode of The Executive Compensation Podcast, Meridian Partner Darren Moskovitz dives into the critical aspects of executive compensation arrangements, especially focusing on the implications of executive departures, severance practices and the recent Federal Trade Commission (FTC) rulings on non-compete restrictions.

The role of the board extends beyond governance and oversight to offering diverse perspectives and constructive feedback as advisers to the CEO in shaping the corporate strategy, identifying market opportunities and emerging risks, allocating capital, evaluating performance, and formulating succession plans. Building trust is paramount in all of these activities.

CEOs need focused, actionable advice from their boards. Boards must prioritize strategic conversations and foster an environment of trust and openness to effectively support the CEO in navigating complex business challenges.

The next 12 months are likely to be another challenging year for audit committees. The 9 topics we have highlighted for 2025 may include some areas audit committees would consider beyond the official scope of responsibility as outlined in their respective charters.

Transferable tax credits enacted through the IRA allow taxpayers to reduce their federal tax liabilities while supporting renewable energy and sustainable technologies.

A tax credit is a type of tax incentive that can reduce a company’s tax liability on a dollar-for-dollar basis...

Environmental, social and governance (ESG) analysis has matured rapidly over the last half-decade, becoming increasingly incorporated into investment decision-making processes...

Transferable tax credits enacted through the IRA allow taxpayers to reduce their federal tax liabilities while supporting renewable energy and sustainable technologies.

When preparing for a transferable tax credit transaction, a due diligence checklist informs the conversation, identifies impediments to the transaction, and allows stakeholders to focus on strategy, structure, and deal execution.

Meridian foresees five significant issues that Compensation Committees may face in 2025. Anticipating these issues may provide opportunities for strategic planning and positive outcomes despite a challenging business environment.