The Importance of Being 'Squeaky Clean'

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In this chapter, they discuss the importance of being 'squeaky clean' and the problem of corruption in many parts of the world. They also describe Jorge as an objective and data-driven leader who believes in empowerment and business education. The discussion then moves to the composition of the board and how Jorge convinced people to join, using a practice of starting with committees before inviting them to the main board. This practice allows for mutual understanding and chemistry between board members. The chapter concludes by mentioning that the board has added more independent directors over time.

Jorge Quintanilla Nielsen started the private asset management firm Capital SAFI in 2007 — and planned to expand from Bolivia across South America. As a private firm, Capital SAFI isn’t required to have a board, but he knew that governance would be one of the main aspects potential partners would evaluate.

In this episode, Harvard Business School professor V. G. Narayanan discusses his case, “Building the Governance to Take Capital SAFI to the Next Level.” He explains how Nielsen selects board members and holds them accountable in their roles. He also discusses how Capital SAFI’s board guides the firm’s growth, risks, and overall strategy.

Key episode topics include: strategy, corporate strategy, corporate governance, sustainable business practices, boards, investment management, growth strategy, global growth, assessing risk.

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· Listen to the original HBR Cold Call episode: Corporate Governance and Growth Strategy at Capital SAFI (2022)

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