As artificial intelligence (AI) becomes increasingly embedded in business decision-making, corporate governance professionals — especially Corporate Secretaries — must lead the charge in ensuring transparency, ethical use, and long-term accountability. These new responsibilities are not just technical — they are strategic, legal, and reputational.
In this evolving landscape, the role of Corporate Secretaries is more critical than ever. As trusted advisors to the board, they act as the bridge between governance policy and operational reality. Supported by global associations like the Corporate Secretaries International Association (CSIA) and its member bodies, they are uniquely positioned to shape AI governance frameworks and guide boards toward responsible innovation.
Let’s explore three essential questions shaping the future of AI in governance — and the central role Corporate Secretaries must play.
1. How do we ensure transparency in AI systems?
AI systems are often described as “black boxes” — delivering outcomes without revealing how decisions are made. For governance leaders, this lack of visibility creates risk.
Corporate Secretaries can play a key role by:
- Championing AI disclosure policies: Recommending that organisations publish how AI is being used in decision-making processes, especially in sensitive areas like recruitment, compliance, and customer service.
- Reinforcing explainability requirements: Ensuring the board receives clear, non-technical summaries of how AI systems function, what data they rely on, and how bias is being addressed.
- Establishing internal audit practices: Collaborating with audit committees and compliance teams to make sure AI models are regularly reviewed for risk and integrity.
Transparency is not optional — it is the foundation of trust. And it starts with governance professionals insisting on clarity, accountability, and openness.
2. What governance frameworks are needed to manage AI-driven decisions?
As AI becomes more powerful, it must be governed with the same diligence applied to financial, operational, and legal risks.
Corporate Secretaries should guide the board to:
- Establish AI ethics and risk committees: Whether as stand-alone groups or as part of existing ESG or risk committees, these forums can help boards engage meaningfully with AI strategy.
- Define clear lines of accountability: Corporate Secretaries are key in documenting roles, escalation pathways, and oversight responsibilities when AI is integrated into decision-making.
- Adopt global principles and adapt them locally: Associations like CSIA and its members offer valuable guidance, resources, and case studies that help companies implement global best practices tailored to their region and sector.
- Integrate AI governance into annual reporting: Encourage transparency with stakeholders by including commentary on how AI is used, governed, and monitored in ESG and governance disclosures.
Frameworks aren’t just policy documents — they are living structures that must evolve with technology. And Corporate Secretaries ensure they stay relevant, compliant, and actionable.
3. How can we upskill boards to keep pace with technological change?
Boards cannot govern what they don’t understand. As AI accelerates, so must the digital literacy of board members.
Corporate Secretaries are instrumental in:
- Curating board education: Identifying and recommending ongoing training, briefings, and workshops that empower directors to understand AI’s strategic implications.
- Bringing external voices to the table: Engaging AI experts, ethicists, or technologists to present to the board or conduct scenario planning sessions.
- Ensuring AI is on the agenda: Including AI risks and opportunities as a standing topic in board meetings ensures the issue remains visible and forward-looking.
Associations like CSIA play a vital role in this journey — by offering thought leadership, practical resources, training opportunities, and cross-border collaboration to help members stay ahead of technological change. By participating in initiatives like CSIA’s quarterly themes, webinars, and mentoring programmes, Corporate Secretaries can sharpen their capabilities and better advise their boards.
Conclusion: Governance Must Evolve with Technology
AI’s role in corporate governance will only grow — and so will the responsibility of governance professionals to ensure that systems are ethical, transparent, and aligned with stakeholder expectations. By focusing on transparency, governance frameworks, and board readiness, organisations can embrace AI not just as a tool, but as a trusted partner in value creation and responsible leadership.
With support from CSIA, governance professionals have access to a wealth of insight, frameworks, and peer networks that help them meet this moment. The future of governance is digital — and it’s a future Corporate Secretaries are ready to lead.
