The Board as a Strategist -- In a Socially Constructed World

The article argues that boards of directors of Danish companies have been socially constructed as important decision-making bodies. Since 1974, employees have elected members to the board of directors -- currently, 33% of them. The board has emerged as a team applying integrative decision-making processes (March & Olsen). It has also been able to convince the stakeholders, the press, & the public about its important standing in the management of the company. This development is examined from these different perspectives: (1) the changing business environment; (2) a radical social psychological version of leadership theory (Meindi); & (3) a view of the board as a theater ensemble staging a performance for the audience (stakeholders & the wider environment). 1 Table, 2 Figures, 21 References. Adapted from the source document.