Chair (officer)

The Role of the Chair: A Seat of Power and Responsibility

Imagine a grand theater where every actor on stage must follow the director’s cues to perform flawlessly. The chair, in this metaphorical scenario, is that all-seeing, all-hearing director. But who exactly is this chair? Is it just any seat or does it come with a set of responsibilities and duties?

The term ‘chair’ can be used to refer to both the person holding the office and the seat from which they preside. This dual meaning highlights the importance of the role, as the chair’s actions directly influence the proceedings of meetings and the overall direction of an organization.

Why ‘Chair’ Might Be Considered Sexist

The term ‘chair’ has been criticized for its potential sexism, leading to the adoption of terms like ‘chairperson,’ ‘chairwoman,’ or ‘chairman.’ This shift in terminology reflects a broader effort to make language more inclusive and equitable. But why does this matter? Isn’t it just semantics?

Responsibilities of the Chair

The chair’s responsibilities are multifaceted, much like the many roles one might play on stage. They include calling meetings to order, determining quorum, recognizing members, enforcing rules, and putting questions to a vote. The chair must also adjourn meetings when necessary, all while maintaining impartiality and ensuring an objective approach.

Is it easy to juggle these responsibilities? Not always. Just as a director must balance the needs of actors with the script’s demands, the chair must navigate the dynamics of their group to ensure smooth operations.

Different Types of Chairs

The role of the chair can vary widely depending on the context and organization. In public corporations, for instance, there are three common types: chairman and CEO, executive chair, and non-executive chair. Each type comes with its own set of powers and duties.

Chairman and CEO

In some organizations, the chief executive officer (CEO) may also hold the title of chair. This dual role can be seen as a way to streamline decision-making processes but might also lead to conflicts of interest if not managed carefully.

Executive Chair

An executive chair is an office separate from that of CEO, where the titleholder wields significant influence over company operations. This position allows for a clear separation between leadership and governance roles while still maintaining strong oversight.

Non-Executive Chair

A non-executive chair holds a separate post with limited authority but plays a crucial role in board activities. Their duties include chairing meetings, organizing activities, reviewing performance, and evaluating the board. This type of chair is more prevalent in countries like the UK and Canada.

Disciplinary Procedures for Chairs

The powers of the chair vary widely across organizations. In some cases, they may have executive powers to hire staff and make financial decisions, while in others, their authority is limited. Regardless of the scope, chairs are subject to disciplinary procedures if they exceed their authority, engage in misconduct, or fail to perform their duties.

Who decides on these actions? The rules of the organization typically determine who can discipline the chair, ensuring a fair and transparent process.

The Three Common Types of Chairs in Public Corporations

1. Chairman and CEO: In some companies, the CEO also serves as the chairman, combining leadership with governance roles. 2. Executive Chair: This is a separate position from the CEO, where the titleholder has significant influence over company operations. 3. Non-Executive Chair: A distinct post with limited authority but crucial duties related to board activities.

The role of the chair differs between private equity-backed boards and non-profit or publicly listed organizations. In the US, executive chairs are more common, while non-executive chairs are prevalent in the UK and Canada.

Vice-Chair and Deputy Chair

In some organizations, a vice- or deputy chair may be chosen to assist the chair and serve in their absence. This role can have varying levels of ranking and seniority, often holding only advisory roles. There is also an unrelated definition of deputy chairs as executives with higher rank than executive vice-president.

Just as a chair in an organization is pivotal, so too are the roles and responsibilities that come with it. Whether you’re leading a board meeting or overseeing a company’s operations, understanding the nuances of this role can make all the difference. After all, every great performance starts with a well-directed cast.