‘The Fish Rots from the Head’ author to give NZ talk
A pre-eminent British author in governance best practice, Professor Bob Garratt, will give a one-off public address in
Auckland early next month on the global drive to reform boards of directors through tougher legislation.
Hosted by AUT University, he will discuss the growing pressure worldwide on directors to be more transparent and
accountable.
The author of The Fish Rots from the Head, Bob Garratt is the chairman of Organisation Development Limited in Hong Kong
and Media Projects International in London. He is an international strategy consultant who specialises in the
development of directors and board structure, the strategic positioning of businesses and cross-cultural issues.
AUT University Associate Professor of Management, Coral Ingley, says his talk will be relevant to anyone interested in
avoiding the catastrophic failures of major organisations witnessed in other countries.
“Bob’s talk is very relevant to New Zealand. Some of our top companies are listed on the US stock exchange and are
directly affected by recent legislation and reform efforts, such as the controversial Sarbanes-Oxley Act.
“Companies and directors here are keen to lift their standards of governance and know benchmark standards being applied
elsewhere. Good governance is especially important when seeking capital in global equity markets.”
Dr Ingley says Bob Garratt is an ardent advocate of professionalising the role of directors.
“Bob will discuss major developments and leading thinking around the world. His focus is on how to make boards more
effective. His talk highlights governance principles and best practices being applied not only to business but also to
all types of organisations.
“He will consider, against a background of increasing demands on boards and directors with tighter legislation, where
the development of corporate governance is heading. He’ll ask whether tougher laws are enough to improve board and
corporate performance.”
Dr Ingley says business students, academics and business professionals from all organisations, including from the health
sector, charitable organisations, private sector and sporting groups, are welcome to attend.
AUT University public address:
TOPIC: Whither Corporate Governance?
TIME: 4-5pm
DATE: Tuesday, November 1
VENUE: Room WF710, AUT University Business School
Corner Wakefield Street & Mayoral Drive, Auckland City
SPEAKER: Professor Bob Garratt FInst D, FIoM, MCSD, FIPD, FRSA
RSVP: Serena Gent, 09 921 5774, serena.gent@aut.ac.nz