Why aren’t boards diversifying faster? The findings in our Corporate Board Practices: 2019 Edition report underscore the main reasons progress on board refreshment and diversity remains slow: board seats rarely become vacant and, when a spot is available, it is often taken by a seasoned director rather than a newcomer with no prior board experience. Be sure to read the report for more interesting insights.

Regarding the future leadership of the ESG Center, it is with great pleasure that I announce the appointment of Paul F. Washington as the new Executive Director, starting June 3. With a background spanning the corporate, academic, governmental and non-profit spheres, including 15 years as Corporate Secretary of Time Warner Inc., Paul is a well-recognized leader with a distinguished track record in the ESG space and perfectly positioned to strengthen The Conference Board commitment to ESG. I have known Paul for many years and am excited to see him take the ESG Center to new heights.

I would like to take this opportunity to express my appreciation to you, our valued members, who continue to shape the ESG landscape through ongoing participation in our programs, working groups, and research efforts. It has been an absolute pleasure to work with you over the past three years, and I thank you for many insightful relationships during my time here at The Conference Board.