M&A transactions are again on the rise. Some may be friendly or begin with an unwelcome advance by a suitor that turns hostile. In all cases, the board of directors plays a critical role.

While the use of stock-based awards in executive compensation packages have been a long-standing tool, one investor recently “upped the game” by attracting newly appointed CEOs who directly invested in company warrants at their fair value prior to their employment.

Lockheed Martin CEO and Chairman Robert J. Stevens, who announced he will be retiring as CEO at the end of 2012, looks back on the experiences of executives and directors who transitioned "From Battlefield to Boardroom" at a recent NACD boardroom development program.

A corporation's brand should be seen as a long-term investment that needs to be protected, nurtured and funded at the board level.

When directors begin to engage with the company outside of the boardroom, they’re able to contribute greater value at board meetings. But that’s not the only advantage they gain. Those directors have also automatically found another point of entry (or several) for delivering value. By reaching outside the boardroom to gain perspective, they’re allowing more people from the company to benefit from their experiences and expertise.

NACD and BlackRock have invited students, researchers and university faculty to participate in a global challenge to apply the latest in academic theory to develop innovative corporate governance practices.

Nutrisystem will seek a new CEO to replace Joe Redling, whose contract expires at the end of this year's third quarter.

The story of how EMC incorporated sustainability into its business strategy.

The number of lead directors at S&P 500 companies rose to 247 in 2011 from 165 in 2006.

Audit committee members' top concerns for 2012 are governance processes, controls and risk management.

Boards want new directors with both fresh perspectives and extensive experience.

A bevy of action items for nominating/governance committees: listen, question, and be prepared for more regulation.

The closing of the frontier in the 1890s gave rise to big government. The Internet represents a new Manifest Destiny, reasons author Eric Robert Morse.

The former ambassador to Finland is a pilot, astronaut, lawyer, mountaineer, biker and world-class director.

Broadridge ups ante to increase shareholder participation.

The annual What Society Thinks Survey reveals a divergence of opinion about boards and business.

Boards must be involved in the development of a cloud strategy, as significant risks exist that could have dangerous consequences for the company.

How boards can be better prepared for today's volatile business world.

Many executives and investors are concerned about the effects of new regulations on future growth plans.

Board committees on science and technology gain visibility, momentum.