Synopses & Reviews
Corporate governance, the role played by the board of directors, has changed dramatically in recent years, as boards become more assertive in their watchdog function. In Keeping Good Company, Jonathan Charkham whom The Financial Times of London recently dubbed "Mr. Corporate Governance" provides an insightful comparative study of corporate governance in five major industrial powers: Japan, Germany, France, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Charkham points out that the best systems seem to be collegial in style, and that contrary to the saying that the best committees are committees of one, group management is actually the most efficient way of running a large and complex operation. This book brilliantly demonstrates that a sound framework for the exercise of corporate power is an economic necessity. It will be essential reading for all top executives, especially those working for multinational corporations.
Review
"Indispensable....A masterly overview by a former adviser to the governor of the Bank of England....Unlikely to be bettered, either for its description of how management is held to account...or for the judicious assessment of the merits of the respective systems of governance." The Financial Times
Review
"An essential purchase for international business collections." Library Journal
Review
"An informative primer on how private enterprises are managed in France, Germany, Great Britain, Japan and the U.S....A detailed and enlightening introduction to a socioeconomic construct that is a vital determinant of the wealth of nations." Kirkus Reviews
About the Author
Jonathan Charkham was formerly adviser to the Governor of the Bank of England. He has served on many committees on corporate governance, including the National Health Service and Housing Associations (U.K.) He is a director of several public companies, including Great Universal Stores PLC.
Table of Contents
1. Introduction
2. Germany
3. Japan
4. France
5. The United States of America
6. The United Kingdom
7. Which System is Best