The Board of Directors for a Private Enterprise

Dennis Cagan has written a guidebook on the ins and outs of private company boards. Beginning with the value of boards and continuing with the steps of formation, management, and assessment of boards, Cagan has provided practical direction on all of the relevant aspects.The author addresses the difference between fiduciary and advisory boards. He guides you on how to find and qualify directors while also preparing for the prospects' questions. After taking you step by step through the formation of a board, he steers you through the board meetings and counsels you on the finesse of firing directors. While the book is a blueprint of proven board governance, it is also contemporary in its discussion of diversity and cybersecurity issues. Cagan ends the tour with pointers on the qualities and compensation of directors and the chairman.As valuable as its recommendations, the book is further enhanced by Cagan’s experience on 60+ boards. He is generous with his stories of real world board behavior, both good and bad. It makes for an entertaining, as well as educational, read.If you are a private company CEO, equity owner, new board member or simply curious about board governance for private companies, you couldn’t serve yourself a better overview and guide. It really is a comprehensive look at the inside of private board governance.

If you are looking for that one book that nails all you need to know about private company boards, this is the one. Author Cagan has lived it from all sides in terms of the owner, investor, advisor, director, CEO, board chair and more. His depth of experience is likely unmatched and his writing is clear, crisp and to the point. There are huge lessons to be learned here. Do not miss this one for your personal library or as an orientation tool for new private company board members.

As a founder of a tech startup business. This has been an essential tool in shaping the board. What a blessing to have this resource.

This is a perfect read for both those new to boards and those looking to enhance the impact of their board. Great thoughtfulness into why things are done for the novice and experienced alike.

Just didn’t get much out of this. I was looking more technical and management info. This was too general.

Clear and well written.

This book is packed with actionable insights from cover to cover for anyone looking to be part of a board. All facets of board formation and management are covered with great detail and real world experience. It's one of those books you keep close for handy reference.David Haas