The Independent Director Advantage: Leveraging Objectivity for Success
Richard Barr Overview:
This session explores: Role, power, and responsibilities of independent directors, case examples, value maximization
Why you should Attend:
This webinar is part of a 12-session executive series designed to deepen strategic understanding of corporate governance across sectors and geographies. Each session explores a core governance theme-ranging from board effectiveness and independent oversight to IT risk, capital markets, and ethics. Grounded in real-world case studies, international frameworks, and practical experience, the series equips directors, executives, and governance professionals with the tools to strengthen oversight, reduce risk, and lead with integrity in a rapidly evolving environment.
Areas Covered in the Session:
- Definition and role of independent directors
- Selection, qualifications, and board value-add
- Jurisdictional comparisons (SOX, UK Companies Act)
- Stakeholder engagement and board dynamics
Who Will Benefit:
- Board Members
- C-Suite Executives
- Governance Professionals
- Compliance Officers
- Legal and Risk Advisors
Speaker Profile
Richard Barr is a highly respected advisor and international expert with over 30 years of experience in governance, risk management, compliance, and financial systems. He has worked with central banks, financial institutions, regulators, and high-tech firms, bringing a rare blend of strategic insight and real-world operational expertise.
His career includes five years at Wells Fargo Bank and more than two decades advising public- and private-sector clients on enterprise risk, payment system modernization (including RTGS and SWIFT), anti-fraud measures, and regulatory reform. Since 2001, Richard has served as Co-Founder and Principal Associate of Citadel Advantage Ltd., leading diverse engagements across North America, Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Middle East.
Richard is known for making complex governance, compliance, and financial frameworks clear, practical, and actionable. His clients value his ability to align technical realities with strategic oversight-whether working with boards, compliance leaders, or operational teams.
As a trainer and speaker, Richard has developed and delivered programs for board directors, C-suite executives, compliance officers, and legal/risk professionals. His sessions are known for being direct, relevant, and immediately useful grounded in real-world challenges and delivered with clarity and depth.