Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce | Strategic Diversification of Skills on the Board of Directors at Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce

Status
Filed
AGM date
Previous AGM date
Proposal number
4
Resolution details
Company ticker
CM:CN
Resolution ask
Adopt or amend a policy
ESG theme
  • Social
ESG sub-theme
  • Diversity, equity & inclusion (DEI)
Type of vote
Shareholder proposal
Filer type
Shareholder
Company sector
Financials
Company HQ country
Canada
Resolved clause
It is proposed that the board of directors adopt a new policy of skill diversification tailored to the challenges of today and tomorrow.
Supporting statement
This policy would provide, among other things, the following: 1. Revision of the board skills matrix to specifically include key areas such as: • Climate and sustainability; • Social and racial equity; • Relationships with Indigenous peoples; • Ethics of artificial intelligence; • Community impact and responsible investing. 2. A commitment to actively consider candidates from non-traditional backgrounds, including those from community, academic, Indigenous, or technological backgrounds, provided that these individuals possess relevant strategic or societal expertise. 3. The annual publication, in the management proxy circular, of a transparent assessment of the diversity of expertise represented on the board and the progress made in this area. The environment in which the boards of financial institutions operate is increasingly marked by the rapid emergence of complex corporate governance challenges. Issues related to technology, climate risk, social equity, Indigenous rights, and business ethics require diverse and up-to-date expertise. However, demographic diversity alone, while essential, is not enough. It is imperative to broaden the range of skills represented on the board to ensure: • Improved deliberations and strategic decision-making; • More accurate anticipation of emerging risks; • Strengthened social legitimacy and increased credibility of the organization; • The ability to meet the growing expectations of investors and society as a whole. The active integration of candidates from non-traditional backgrounds, particularly from community, Indigenous, academic, or technological circles, enriches collective thinking and better positions the organization to face the challenges of today and tomorrow. Finally, disclosure of transparent information on the diversity of expertise contributes to accountability and stakeholder confidence.

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