For now, though, he is well-positioned to become a highly sought-after TV pundit, corporate board member, Silicon Valley partner, you name it.

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According to a 2007 study by Corporate Board Member and PricewaterhouseCoopers, directors rate the community and activist shareholders as eighth and ninth in a list of nine most important constituencies they serve.

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However, Nicholas Teller, the board member in charge of corporate banking, says there has been little demand so far from eligible companies.

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Can Thomson, a corporate entity, be held liable as a board member? (Thomson withdrew its last board member in April.) CCBN's lawyers will argue that it can, since Thomson "deputized" individuals to represent it on the board.

FORBES: A tiny rival accuses Thomson Corp. of espionage.

Can Thomson, a corporate entity, be held liable as a board member? (The company withdrew its last board member in April.) CCBN's lawyers will argue that it can, since Thomson "deputized" individuals to represent it on the board.

FORBES: A tiny rival accuses Thomson Corp. of espionage.

Corporate directors, executive coaches and recruiters say executives should study each board member's career path and personal background in advance, but make sure comments don't cross the line.

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Delaying the vote, the board member said, would allow time for talks with religious groups, corporate sponsors, scouting alumni and parents.

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