The panel, which featured Foley Partner Thomas Hartman as well as George Bradt of PrimeGenesis and Joseph Griesedieck of Korn/Ferry International, discussed selecting the successor to a departing CEO — arguably the most important role of the board of directors. In order to minimize the risk of CEO failure, the board’s involvement with the new CEO should not end upon his or her hiring. During the first 100 days of the CEO’s tenure, the board should focus on assisting the CEO with mastering the learning curve, demonstrating support for and confidence in the CEO, fostering relationships between the CEO and board members, and allowing the CEO to run the company without excessive intrusion. Ultimately, the board should help to establish a solid foundation upon which the new CEO can succeed, stay engaged with the CEO’s progress, and allow the CEO to do his or her job, all of which will enable the board to focus on its mandate of guiding the company through changes and challenges.