The role board directors of public companies play in providing oversight and governance around business strategy, investments, and policies—and their focus on emerging issues—has reached new heights, according to the findings of a recent board governance survey.

“To describe 2019 as a turbulent year for companies would be an understatement,” said Amy Rojik, BDO USA’s national assurance partner – communications and governance. “Now, more than ever, public company board members are providing a steady hand through strategic direction, oversight, and risk management, making them an essential voice when planning for issues from digital disruption to market volatility.”

Jaclyn Jaeger is a freelance contributor to Compliance Week after working for the company for 15 years. She writes on a wide variety of topics, including ethics and compliance, risk management, legal,...