Introduction; 1. The changing nature and functions of boards of directors; 2. Boards of directors and purpose: From monitoring to Stewards of the firm's purpose; 3. Boards of directors in corporate strategy: From maximizing short-term shareholder value to creating long-term value; 4. The role of the board of directors in corporate transformation; 5. The board in CEO and senior managers selection, development and succession; 6. From board structure to boards as effective teams; 7. From compliance to an engaging corporate culture; 8. Engaging shareholders and key stakeholders; 9. Assessing the firm's overall impact; 10. Effective boards of directors for better governance: Creating a masterpiece.