RIYADH, Broadcasting News Corporation : The GCC Board Directors Institute (GCC BDI), a not-for-profit organisation that promotes board effectiveness and good corporate governance, supporting GCC boards and board directors, has announced that it will convene the 8th edition of its flagship event, The Chairman Summit, in Riyadh on 6th October. The annual event will bring together influential chairpersons, board members and C-Suite executives from across the GCC region and beyond to explore the ever-evolving role of boards and the implementation of best practices in corporate governance. To be held under the theme of “Sustainable Development and Investment”, the Summit will explore ways to develop the economy and set new standards in sustainable development in the region and globally. It will also examine the latest trends in sustainable investment, as well as in environmental and social governance. The Summit is being run this year in partnership with The Red Sea Development Company, the developer behind The Red Sea and AMAALA. The daylong gathering will comprise panel discussions on topics such as “Emerging Trends in Sustainable Investment”, “Building the Future of Business – Sustainable Development” and “Navigating ESG”. This year’s summit will be a blend of physical and virtual modes, which will allow the flexibility for more participants to attend. The physical places will be limited as per the prevailing COVID-19 regulations and bookings for the same will be allocated on a first come first served basis. In case of any new restrictions on hosting the event physically, it will be held online. Jane Valls, Executive Director of GCC BDI, said, “Global events, coupled with technological developments, have been relentlessly shifting and reshaping criteria, patterns and models of business. The Chairman Summit not only offers insights into the latest and emerging trends in the business world, but it provides a platform for board directors and senior business leaders to network and share experiences with peers and discuss the latest key governance and board issues that help raise awareness and enhance governance practices in the region.” She stressed that the theme of sustainability would add a new dimension to the Summit this year, thanks largely to the pandemic and climate change which has necessitated businesses around the world to focus more sharply than ever on this subject. John Pagano, Group Chief Executive Officer of The Red Sea Development Company, who is a keynote speaker, said: “The GCC BDI Chairman Summit is a great opportunity to explore some of the key challenges and opportunities in the field of sustainability and corporate governance, with all speakers and participants offering insights into new trends and enhancing knowledge and understanding.” “For us at The Red Sea Development Company, it is a chance to share our successes in this field in the hope that our experience will also benefit the wider business community in the Kingdom and wider region.” The GCC BDI Chairman Summit is an annual leadership event that has attracted more than 1,500 participations since its inception in 2013. The event is governed by Chatham House rules. NEWS COLLECTED FROM EMIRATES NEWS AGENCY – WAM.