Board Bootcamp—Special Forces: Independent Directors

Description

Explore how independent voices can bring fresh perspective, accountability, and strategic clarity—and learn how to find the right fit for your business.

Featured experts:

Joe Ayoub

Joe Ayoub is the founder of Varuna Strategies and a nationally respected advisor on board governance, succession, and strategic decision making. With more than three decades of experience building and strengthening boards, he is known for transforming governing bodies into high‑performing, forward‑looking teams that drive enterprise value and organizational clarity. Joe serves on several prominent boards, including the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital/ALSAC National Board of Directors, where he has chaired critical committees such as Membership, Strategic Planning, Legal & Compliance, and Investment. His governance leadership also extends to the Tufts University School of Medicine Board of Advisors, the Office of the Massachusetts Child Advocate Advisory Council, and the Jay Cashman, Inc. Board of Advisors. Earlier, he spent nearly three decades supporting Big Brothers Big Sisters of Massachusetts Bay, now serving as Board Member Emeritus. A graduate of Boston University School of Law, Joe blends legal expertise with deep boardroom insight to help privately held and family‑owned companies navigate complex transitions, strengthen governance structures, and prepare for long‑term success. He is also the co‑host of On Boards, a podcast offering practical, candid conversations about what makes boards—and board members—most effective.

Dennis Kessler

Dennis Kessler is the president and founder of Midwest Family Business Advisors, bringing nearly three decades of experience helping family enterprises navigate the complex intersection of business, relationships, and long‑term continuity. A seasoned entrepreneur and former co‑president of Fel‑Pro Incorporated, Dennis is known for guiding families through leadership development, conflict resolution, governance design, and succession strategies that strengthen both the business and the family behind it. Drawing on his engineering and executive training from Washington University in St. Louis, Dennis has built a national reputation as a trusted advisor to multigenerational companies. His board service includes roles with Fel‑Pro, Universal Automotive, Ideal Industries, Oxford Speaker, W.E. O’Neil Industries, QuesTek Innovations, MFRI, and SWANK Motion Pictures—reflecting a career deeply rooted in corporate governance and strategic oversight. Through Midwest Family Business Advisors, Dennis works closely with owners, rising leaders, and their advisors to enhance communication, build cohesive teams, and prepare organizations for successful transitions. His expertise spans business planning, executive coaching, entrepreneurship, and governance, supported by multiple credentials from the Private Directors Association® in private company governance.

This event is free, hosted via Zoom, and is open to all leadership, family members, and board members from family-owned businesses. It will be recorded and available to access on the members-only portal after the event concludes.