National Association of Corporate Directors

National Association of Corporate Directors
Name	National Association of Corporate Directors
Founded	1977
Location	Washington, D.C.
Key people	Peter R. Gleason (CEO)
Focus	Corporate governance
Website	https://www.nacdonline.org

National Association of Corporate Directors. The National Association of Corporate Directors is a premier membership organization for corporate board members in the United States and internationally. Founded in 1977, it is dedicated to advancing exemplary board leadership and bolstering public trust in American business. Through its comprehensive programs, the association provides directors with education, research, and a forum for peer exchange on critical issues facing modern boards, from cybersecurity to environmental, social, and corporate governance (ESG) oversight.

History

The organization was established in 1977 by a group of directors seeking to professionalize board service and address growing scrutiny from regulators and the public. Its formation coincided with a period of significant corporate governance reform, following high-profile scandals like those involving Penn Central Transportation Company and the subsequent passage of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act. Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, the association expanded its influence as landmark events, such as the Savings and loan crisis and the Cadbury Report in the United Kingdom, heightened global focus on board accountability. The early 2000s saw its role become even more critical in the wake of major corporate failures like Enron and WorldCom, which led to the Sarbanes–Oxley Act. In 2014, the association merged with the Center for Board Leadership, further consolidating its position as a central authority on governance thought leadership.

Mission_and_Objectives

The core mission is to empower board members to lead with confidence and integrity, thereby strengthening the performance of their organizations. A primary objective is to elevate the standards of directorship through rigorous credentialing and continuous learning. The association aims to serve as the authoritative voice on board practices, providing tools and frameworks that help directors navigate complex areas like risk management, CEO succession, and shareholder activism. Furthermore, it seeks to foster a collaborative community where directors can engage in candid dialogue about challenges ranging from geopolitical risk to technological disruption.

Membership_and_Certification

Membership is open to corporate board members, executives, and governance professionals from organizations of all sizes, including public companies, private companies, and nonprofit organizations. The association offers the prestigious Director Professionalism certification, a credential that signifies mastery of core board competencies. Other key credentials include the Cyber-Risk Oversight certification, developed in collaboration with Carnegie Mellon University, and the Board Leadership Fellow designation, which recognizes a commitment to ongoing education. The membership body comprises directors from leading entities such as ExxonMobil, Microsoft, and the Federal Reserve Bank.

Education_and_Research

The association delivers a robust curriculum through in-person programs, online courses, and webinars, often held at venues like the University of Chicago Booth School of Business. Its research arm produces influential publications, including the annual **NACD Public Company Governance Survey** and blue-ribbon commission reports on topics like artificial intelligence and climate change. Collaborations with institutions such as the Stanford Graduate School of Business and the Moody's Corporation enhance the rigor of its insights. This body of work provides directors with practical guidance on implementing frameworks from organizations like the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO).

Advocacy_and_Policy

The association actively engages with regulators and standard-setters to advocate for balanced, effective governance policies. It regularly provides testimony to bodies like the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission and comments on proposed rules from the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board. Key advocacy positions have focused on issues such as proxy access, board diversity, and the implementation of the Dodd–Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act. The association also works with international counterparts, including the International Corporate Governance Network, to promote sound governance principles globally.

Chapters_and_Events

A network of local chapters across major metropolitan areas, including New York City, Chicago, and Silicon Valley, facilitates regional programming and networking. The flagship event is the **NACD Global Board Leaders’ Summit**, held annually in Washington, D.C., which attracts speakers like former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice and leaders from the NYSE and BlackRock. Other significant gatherings include the **NACD Directorship 100™ Awards** gala and various chapter-led roundtables that address local economic issues and regulatory developments from agencies like the California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation.

Category:Corporate governance organizations Category:Professional associations based in the United States Category:Organizations established in 1977