In 2022, Novartis decided to spin off its generics and biosimilars division into an independent company, Sandoz. This required building a new organisation and governance system from the ground up. The case recounts how the Swiss corporation went about forming a board of directors for Sandoz, including the search for an independent, purpose-driven chair to guide the transformation.

In preparation for its spin-off from Novartis, Sandoz began building an independent board. Chair-elect Gilbert Ghostine led the effort to define the company’s governance model, identify the mix of skills and values needed, and recruit a diverse, purpose-driven group of directors.

After its listing, Sandoz embarked on a new phase focused on governance in action. The task shifted from board formation to performance — establishing routines, defining its role in strategy and oversight, and deepening its collaboration with management. The case explores how a newly created board functions, learns, and adjusts its processes and composition.

Fotin, a family-owned European packaging company, is at a strategic crossroads and is facing a critical decision: should it uphold its current strategy, shift towards sustainability with selective customer engagement, or prioritize sales volumes? The board must weigh its strategic options to determine Fotin’s future and agree on an incentive scheme for senior executives.

Plus Pack, founded in 1914, evolved from a small tinware factory into a leading packaging manufacturer under the stewardship of the Haustrup family. This case study examines how the fourth generation owners transformed corporate governance at Plus Pack and how the renewed board of directors oversaw the strategy development process.

Plus Pack, founded in 1914, evolved from a small tinware factory into a leading packaging manufacturer under the stewardship of the Haustrup family. This case study examines how the fourth-generation owners transformed corporate governance at Plus Pack and how the renewed board of directors oversaw the strategy development process.