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The VR survey was developed by Knight Gianella and conducted online in German by gfs-zürich (Markt- & Sozialforschung AG) in the third quarter of 2025. The results were interpreted by Prof. Dr. Georg Guttmann, Director of Board Programs at the Executive School of the University of St. Gallen (ES-HSG).

Of the 192 participants, 65% hold positions at listed companies, 33% at companies with family/anchor shareholders, and 12% at state-affiliated companies. The majority work on at least one compensation (58%), nomination (57%), or audit committee (55%). In addition, 40% are represented on a strategy committee, 32% on a risk committee, and 7% on a digitalization committee. Due to multiple responses and multiple mandates (3.9 per participant), the total number is higher than the number of all participants.

The 26th Knight Gianella Board Survey represents around 805 board mandates with 192 participants. With a very high response rate of 19.4% of the nearly 1,000 board members surveyed (with an average of 3.9 mandates per board member) and a female participation rate of 31%, the study is a representative reflection of the population. The board survey was first conducted in 2000 – more than 25 years ago.

In a world of growing complexity and uncertainty, both Boards of Directors and CEOs are faced with the task of navigating their companies safely through geopolitical tensions, protectionist tendencies and increasingly tight regulations. This makes clear strategies, digital transformation and a high degree of trust in corporate management all the more important.

finews.ch asked experts what it takes to fill the position—and what to consider before entering the board. We thank Jade Cano (editor of “Finews”) for the exciting interview on the Finews Life Channel. In addition to Dr. Daniela Haze Stöckli (Partner at mindyourstep GmbH), Dr. Fabienne E. Meier (Partner at Knight Gianella & Partner) talks about the tasks and challenges of a BoD member along the way. Not every successful manager is necessarily a good board member. To master the complex requirements of the highest body, it takes a personality with stature and a clean slate who wants to drive the company forward with conviction. Becoming a BoD member is not only a professional milestone. It can also be an uncertain factor in a career due to the reputational risks associated with possible wrong decisions. However, there is no doubt that the tasks are fun. It is essential to look closely and assess personal risk.