Tuesday, June 12, 2018 | 4:10PM - 5:10PM | Room: Latour Ballroom  |   General Session

Activism is more prevalent than ever, but beyond the high-profile proxy fights we read about every day, what impact does activism really have inside the boardroom?  This panel will provide NIRI members with a rare opportunity to hear directly from one of the world’s most respected activists, Mason Morfit of ValueAct, who will offer his perspective on how activism impacts Board deliberations – both when an activist is agitating on the outside, and when an activist is on the inside as a director.  In addition, two seasoned corporate executives who now serve as public company directors will share their experiences and insights on how Board dynamics are changed by activism.  Finally, Joele Frank – the financial PR expert whose name is synonymous with activism defense –  will offer her always colorful views on activism, the changing role of corporate directors, and how the tactics and impact of “ankle biter” activists differ from those of activists who have “made their bones.”

Learning Objectives:

• Keep current on the latest changes and trends in shareholder activism
• Understand how activism has been a driving force in changing the responsibilities of public company directors, especially with regard to investor relations
• Appreciate the critical role an effective IRO can play in helping the Board understand shareholder sentiment and engage effectively with shareholders to deter shareholder activism