Governance Bites

Mark Banicevich
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Mark Banicevich interviews a series of experts about governance, including company directors, lawyers, executive managers, and governance consultants. Each interview is on a different topic related to governance, tied to the guest's expertise. He also asks interviews for the best governance advice they've received, or they would give to new directors. 

  1. 6D AGO

    Governance Bites #143: Content of a good board meeting, with Steven Bowman

    Send us Fan Mail Veteran governance expert Steven Bowman, who has spent over 40 years in the board and CEO space, reveals the key to Mastering the Effective Board Meeting in this insightful interview with Mark Banicevich. Steven insists the role of any board is not to monitor compliance or produce busy reports, but to create the future. Discover critical strategies like structuring your agenda with ""big ticket"" items up front, using a consent agenda for noting papers, and embedding your organisation’s vision into the meeting content. Learn how to transform risk from a compliance burden into a strategic opportunity and why healthy debate requires staff to provide three fundamentally different options for board choices. Steven Bowman is founder of Conscious Governance, a global, independent advisory service specialising in strategic planning, board governance, leadership, and risk management consulting for Boards, CEOs, and directors. The firm provides resources and guidance to organisations across virtually all sectors, including health, education, government, faith, disability, and housing. The governance model promoted by Conscious Governance is defined as running an organisation with conscious awareness. This approach moves beyond 19th-century systems focused on policy and conformance, prioritising conscious leadership to steer the organisation toward a defined vision and align day-to-day management with organisational strategies. Conscious Board leadership is vital for improving both financial and social results. Core services include Board governance evaluations, risk management strategies, and leadership development, such as CEO performance management. Conscious Governance has reported completing over 500 successful strategic plan facilitations and serving more than 4200 clients. #Governance, #BoardOfDirectors, #EffectiveBoardMeetings, #Strategy, #StrategicRisk, #CreateTheFuture, #BoardAgenda, #ConsentAgenda, #BoardProductivity, #Leadership, #CorporateGovernance, #BoardMembers, #DecisionMaking, #MakingChoices, #GovernanceConsultancy, #ConsciousGovernance, #GovernanceBites

    34 min

  2. MAR 25

    Governance Bites #142: governance and employee well-being, with Tracey Cross

    Send us Fan Mail Is employee financial stress impacting your company’s bottom line? In this essential Governance Bites episode, host Mark Banicevich speaks with legal advisor and independent director Tracey Cross about why boards must prioritize employee financial well-being. Tracey explains that unresolved financial issues drive underperformance and stress, noting 79% of non-relation stress is financial. Discover the economic and social case for action, and learn how stepping up to lead makes the workplace an ""island of civility"" that improves attraction and retention. Boards must ask curious questions to measure productivity gains and ensure this vital topic is addressed at the governance level. Tracey Cross is a highly respected legal and corporate governance expert, bringing over 25 years of experience in financial services regulatory compliance and strategy. As a Chartered Member of the Institute of Directors, Tracey holds key Independent Director roles, currently serving on the Boards of AIA New Zealand and Mint Asset Management. Her board responsibilities include strategy, risk management, and chairing committees like Audit & Risk and ESG. Tracey is passionate about governance with purpose, driving the belief that good conduct and culture are fundamental to competitive and sustainable business. Currently practicing on her own account and working as a governance adviser at Grounded Governance Ltd, she specializes in providing pragmatic, commercially driven solutions, strategy development, and tailored legal and governance training for Boards and businesses. Her focus is on strong leadership and advocating change that results in the best customer outcomes. #Governance, #EmployeeFinancialWellbeing, #CorporateGovernance, #WorkplaceWellness, #Productivity, #FinancialLiteracy, #BoardOfDirectors, #HR, #Retention, #IslandOfCivility, #GovernanceBites

    19 min

  3. MAR 18

    Governance Bites #141: cracking the nut of visual learning for directors, with John Mason

    Send a text In this episode, John Mason joins Mark Banicevich to unpack the fast-changing world of visual learning — and what it means for today’s directors. With attention spans shrinking and Gen Z and Gen Alpha now dominating many workforces, John explains why short, authentic, phone-shot videos are transforming how organisations share knowledge. They discuss why corporate-style training is dying, how peer-to-peer clips can solve problems overnight, and why boards should rethink how they communicate and learn. From AI-ready content libraries to practical tips for building thousands of bite-sized videos, this conversation shows how modern learning can lift performance at every level of the organisation. John Mason is the Founder & Learning Activist for Sideways. He is a specialist in systemic organisational development, leveraging technology to enhance organisational effectiveness. He advocates for a fundamental shift in corporate systems, moving away from outdated, top-down approaches. The core philosophy is that knowledge needs to be liberated, not managed, a vital concept for modern governance. John’s work, which includes founding Vidleos (2013-2022) and Sideways (since 2022), focuses on making workplace learning spontaneous and continuous. By championing a Knowledge Sharing Platform, Sideways acts like an organisation’s brain, democratising access to all the "smarts" in one place. This approach plugs knowledge gaps, improves productivity, and simultaneously enhances organisational consistency. This commitment to peer-to-peer visual learning fosters businesses to become true learning organisations.  #VisualLearning, #DigitalLearning, #MicroLearning, #ShortFormVideo, #LearningInnovation, #DirectorEducation, #BoardDevelopment, #GovernanceBites, #FutureOfLearning, #GenZLearning, #WorkplaceLearning, #LMS, #LearningCulture, #KnowledgeSharing, #PeerToPeerLearning, #AIInLearning, #ContentStrategy, #VideoFirst, #CorporateLearning, #LeadershipDevelopment

    22 min

  4. MAR 11

    Governance Bites #140: the chair's role in appointing a CEO, with Joseph Catanzariti AM

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Mark Banicevich sits down with governance expert Joseph Catanzariti AM to explore the critical role of the chair in recruiting a CEO. The conversation ranges from what truly makes an effective director, to how chairs should navigate CEO succession, manage subcommittees, work with external advisers, and ensure a transparent, rigorous process. Joe also shares insights on preparation, crisis situations, director responsibilities, and common pitfalls boards face during CEO recruitment. A practical, candid discussion for directors, chairs, and anyone involved in governance. Joseph Catanzariti AM is a highly regarded governance expert, Strategic Adviser, Mediator, Arbitrator, and Investigator. He draws on over 40 years of practical legal experience and possesses extensive Board level experience across Australia and internationally. In 2016, Mr Catanzariti was awarded a Member in the Order of Australia AM for significant service to the law, to legal education, to labour and employment relations, and to professional legal bodies. Mr. Catanzariti currently serves as the Chairman of The College of Law Australia (since 2008), a role accompanied by Board Member positions for institutions in the UK and New Zealand. During his tenure as a Director for the Law Council of Australia, his governance oversight included service as a Member of the Corporate Governance Committee and as a Member and Chair of the Audit and Risk Committee. Furthermore, he advises Boards and Companies on crucial matters such as risk management and psychosocial hazards. Before transitioning to advisory roles, he completed an 11-year term as Vice President of the Fair Work Commission. #Governance, #BoardLeadership, #ESG, #SocialImpact, #CorporateResponsibility, #RiskManagement, #StakeholderEngagement, #SustainableBusiness, #LeadershipDevelopment, #BoardEffectiveness, #EthicalLeadership, #DirectorEducation, #GovernanceInsights, #NonprofitGovernance, #CorporateCulture

    33 min

  5. MAR 4

    Governance Bites #139: advisory boards for family businesses, with Sandy Kimpton

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Governance Bites, Mark Banicevich sits down with family governance expert Sandy Kimpton to discuss a crucial topic: what is true intergenerational success? Discover why family governance is about more than just wealth management; it's about developing human capital and preserving your family’s legacy and values. Sandy explains the power of "operating with intentionality", providing practical steps to align family and business. Learn how a long-term family perspective differs from short-term business thinking  and why an independent voice on a family council is essential. Website: https://kimptonandco.co/ In this insightful episode of Governance Bites, our host Mark Banicevich sits down with family business expert Sandy Kimpton to unpack the strategic power of advisory boards. Discover how an advisory board differs from a formal board of directors and why it might be the perfect governance solution for your family-owned enterprise. Sandy explains how this structure provides expert advice and objective, long-term perspective without the family relinquishing control. Learn how to balance business goals with family dynamics and make decisions that secure the best future for both. #AdvisoryBoard, #FamilyBusiness, #Governance, #CorporateGovernance, #BoardOfDirectors, #FamilyOwnedBusiness, #BusinessStrategy, #SuccessionPlanning, #NextGeneration, #FamilyDynamics, #Leadership, #BusinessGrowth, #StrategicPlanning, #ExpertAdvice, #GovernanceBites

    21 min

  6. FEB 25

    Governance Bites #138: Board-only or in camera time, with Steven Bowman

    Send us Fan Mail Tune into Governance Bites as Mark Banicevich interviews governance expert STeven Bowman, who draws on nearly 40 years of experience in the board and CEO space,. This conversation dissects the crucial yet often misunderstood practice of Board Only Sessions (or ""in camera"" time). Steven reveals why this dedicated time, which excludes executive staff, is vital for managing director bad behaviour. Learn the best practices for handling sensitive topics, including CEO performance management and succession planning,. Discover how to make these sessions structured, transparent, and a standard part of board hygiene, rather than a crisis signa,. Steven also outlines the strict rules regarding decisions and minimalist minutes to ensure legal compliance. Steven Bowman is founder of Conscious Governance, a global, independent advisory service specialising in strategic planning, board governance, leadership, and risk management consulting for Boards, CEOs, and directors. The firm provides resources and guidance to organisations across virtually all sectors, including health, education, government, faith, disability, and housing. The governance model promoted by Conscious Governance is defined as running an organisation with conscious awareness. This approach moves beyond 19th-century systems focused on policy and conformance, prioritising conscious leadership to steer the organisation toward a defined vision and align day-to-day management with organisational strategies. Conscious Board leadership is vital for improving both financial and social results. Core services include Board governance evaluations, risk management strategies, and leadership development, such as CEO performance management. Conscious Governance has reported completing over 500 successful strategic plan facilitations and serving more than 4200 clients. #BoardOnlySessions, #InCameraSessions, #CorporateGovernance, #BoardofDirectors, #DirectorBehavior, #BadBehavior, #CEOPerformance, #SuccessionPlanning, #BoardMinutes, #MinimalistMinutes, #BoardHygiene, #BoardChair, #ConsciousGovernance, #GovernanceBites

    23 min

  7. FEB 18

    Governance Bites #137: Governance in the world of AI, with Ian Fitzgerald

    Send us Fan Mail In this essential episode, Mark Banicevich interviews governance veteran Ian Fitzgerald on the immediate and long-term impact of artificial intelligence on the boardroom. Ian breaks down how AI enhances the four pillars of governance—from using AI for scenario planning and deeper strategic insight to improving oversight and risk management through pattern recognition. The discussion covers practical tools for handling confidential board information securely and the critical importance of setting clear guardrails and understanding the dual risks of moving too slowly or too quickly. This is your guide to ensuring AI is a powerful tool, not a technological distraction. Ian Fitzgerald is an experienced company director and advisor based in Blenheim, New Zealand. A Chartered Fellow of the New Zealand Institute of Directors, his career in governance spans the public, private, and not-for-profit sectors. Ian began his career at the NZ Treasury, working on public policy and international economics, before moving into executive roles at Westpac in both New Zealand and Australia. In 1998, he founded the professional services firm Burleigh Evatt, where he advised senior executives on complex strategic issues. Since 2012, Ian's main focus has been on directorships and advisory assignments. His extensive governance portfolio highlights his diverse expertise. He is currently the Chair of the Niue Development Bank. His former leadership roles include serving as Chair of Public Trust, a Crown Entity; Deputy Chair of the Institute of Directors in New Zealand; Chair of Timaru District Holdings Limited; and Chairman of the Ngati Apā ki te Rā Tō Investment Company. He has also been a director for organisations such as World of WearableArt and Kiwibank. #AIGovernance, #CorporateGovernance, #BoardofDirectors, #ArtificialIntelligence, #AI, #FutureofWork, #DigitalTransformation, #RiskManagement, #Strategy, #Leadership, #Business, #Podcast, #YouTube, #DirectorDuties, #ExecEducation

    29 min

  8. FEB 11

    Governance Bites #136: Artificial intelligence and governance, with Tony Dench

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Governance Bites, Mark Banicevich sits down with Tony Dench to explore the transformative impact of artificial intelligence [AI] on boards and governance. They discuss why AI is no longer optional, the opportunities it creates, the risks boards must manage, and how to approach ethical and ESG [environmental, social and governance] considerations. Tony shares practical advice for directors feeling out of their depth and reveals how AI is reshaping decision-making, board reporting, and stakeholder engagement. A must-watch for leaders navigating the AI-driven business landscape. Tony Dench is an experienced board member and chair with a passion for applying governance principles in a practical and pragmatic manner. He has more than 30 years of combined international experience in leadership roles across financial services, accountancy, and law. As a leader, Tony has a proven track record of delivering impressive results through a hands-on, collaborative style that builds trusting relationships based on integrity and empathy. A strong advocate for purpose-driven strategy, he successfully implemented this approach as CEO of SHARE, where profits more than trebled under his leadership. Tony currently holds several governance roles, including Independent Director for Utilities Disputes and SBS Insurance, and serves on the Finance, Audit & Risk Committee for the New Zealand Law Society. #AI, #ArtificialIntelligence, #Governance, #BoardOfDirectors, #CorporateGovernance, #BusinessStrategy, #EthicalAI, #ESG, #Leadership, #DigitalTransformation, #RiskManagement, #Innovation, #FutureOfWork, #AIinBusiness, #ExecutiveLeadership, #AIethics, #AIadoption, #BusinessGrowth, #BoardLeadership, #GovernanceInsights

    18 min
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About

Mark Banicevich interviews a series of experts about governance, including company directors, lawyers, executive managers, and governance consultants. Each interview is on a different topic related to governance, tied to the guest's expertise. He also asks interviews for the best governance advice they've received, or they would give to new directors. 

Information

  • Creator
    Mark Banicevich
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    143
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Governance Bites
  • Show Website
    Governance Bites