Launceston Directors' Briefing: Culture in the Boardroom

Culture is one of the most powerful drivers of organisational performance, risk and reputation yet it remains one of the most difficult areas for boards to govern effectively. In an environment of heightened scrutiny, shifting workforce expectations and complex stakeholder demands, directors are increasingly expected to move beyond surface‑level reporting and develop a deeper line of sight into organisational culture.

This director briefing will explore the board’s role in shaping, testing and sustaining culture from the top. Through practical insights and real‑world examples, the session will examine how boards can move from intent to impact embedding culture into governance frameworks, decision‑making and accountability mechanisms. Directors will consider how culture shows up under pressure, how it is reinforced through incentives and behaviours, and how boards can respond when values and outcomes diverge.

Designed for experienced and emerging directors, this briefing will provide a practical forum to reflect on how culture is governed in the boardroom, and what effective oversight looks like in practice.

Speakers

• Sally Darke FAICD | Chair Education Regulation in Tasmania Non Executive Director, Stadiums Tasmania and private tourism and hospitality business
• Katherine Schaefer PSM | Non Executive Director at Sustainable Timber Tasmania and TasNetworks Commissioner, State Grants Commission Tasmania
• Dr Melanie Irons | Consultant Psychologist