As board members, directors have the responsibility to safeguard the assets of the company and its members/customers.  Thus, it is vital to understand what that responsibility will entail, what roles the position will require you to take, and how you will be held accountable.  What tools do directors need to make critical decisions?  How do you set goals and how do you measure if those goals have been met? 

In this uncertain environment, success is not guaranteed.  Thus, it is essential that board members are aware of their roles and responsibilities.  Directors must be well informed and capable of making tough decisions.  Also key, board members should grasp the rationale that "it is not the job of the directors to run the company; the directors' job is to make sure the company is run well."  JSI can help directors understand that difference ... to see what their duties are - and what they are not - and to understand what they need from management to carry out their duties. 

Cooperatives and other locally based providers have a long tradition of contributing to the prosperity and growth of the communities they serve.  They work closely with local schools, sponsor student activities, award scholarships, and host events and demonstrations at county fairs, town parades, and other community festivities.  Local development is nothing new, and community based companies and boards have embraced the pivotal economic roles their businesses play.  JSI understands that your active involvement in local development is a key differential for your company in a fiercely competitive market.  In this era of broadband possibility, real opportunities exist to bring new business and enterprise "back to rural America, " and we offer insight on innovative ways for boards to pursue an active stance in the local economy. 

For a board to meet its fiduciary responsibilities, each director must have an understanding of financial management.  What rate of return should the company seek?  What is TIER?  ARPU?  Should we invest or pay off debt?  What should we do about capital credits?  These are just a few of the questions board members should be asking.  JSI's Management Services staff not only can provide financial instruction but also train you on how to gauge the financial health of your company. 

If you have any questions or would like additional information on JSI's director development programs, contact Steve Meltzer (smeltzer@jsitel.com), or Chris Lehner (clehner@jsitel.com), at 301-459-7590.