What It Takes to Be a Board Leader

What It Takes to Be a Board Leader

October 22, 2025 · 37 min · Episode 26

About this episode

This episode explores the qualities and relationships that define effective board leaders, featuring insights from Virginia Gambale and Susan Paley.

Boards don’t always need a well-known, “rock star” chair; sometimes, individuals who simply possess strong leadership qualities are more successful in the role. In this episode, board member Virginia Gambale and NACD advisor Susan Paley explore the role of independent chairs. They discuss the difference between board leaders and other board members, the relationships to prioritize in the role, and the qualities of effective chairs. Host: Susan Paley , NACD advisor Guest: Virginia Gambale , chair, Nutanix; board member, Consumer Edge, Evertec, Virtu Financial, and 10x Banking Technology; managing partner, Azimuth Partners Related NACD Resources: Director Essentials: Board Leadership Structures Director Essentials: Succession Planning for Board and Committee Leaders Visit nacdonline.org for further research and information.

People in this episode

Host: Susan Paley

Guest: Virginia Gambale

Topics covered

Keywords

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: NACD, Nutanix, Consumer Edge, Evertec, Virtu Financial, 10x Banking Technology, Azimuth Partners

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