Board Advisory
Strong Boards Shape Bold Futures
In today’s complex and constantly shifting environment, boards are being called to do more—and do it better. High-impact boards—those that are engaged, effective, and strategically aligned—are not just helpful; they’re essential.
We believe that governance isn’t a static structure. It’s a living system that must evolve, just like the organization it supports. A high-impact board leans into this responsibility—asking thoughtful questions, making bold decisions, and staying focused on mission and impact. It invests in its own development, builds a strong infrastructure, and holds itself to the same standard of continuous improvement it expects from leadership.
Every board is different. That’s why our advisory approach is tailored to your goals, your team, and the realities of your internal and external environment. Whether you’re navigating new challenges, rethinking your strategy, or strengthening your internal culture, our advisory services meet you where you are. We tailor our approach to your context—helping you build the capacity, clarity, and confidence to shape a bold future.
Our Board Advisory Offerings
High-Impact Board Accelerator
Our High-Impact Board Accelerator dives deep into your board’s purpose, structure, process, composition, and culture. We pinpoint where your board excels and where it can achieve even greater impact, ensuring every meeting and decision aligns with your strategic vision and propels your organization toward its long-term goals.
Board Development
Our Board Development services offer tailored training sessions to enhance board effectiveness and share governance best practices coupled with expert design and delivery for strategic board retreats. We’ll equip your board members with the knowledge and tools they need to enhance effectiveness, foster alignment, and navigate today’s governance landscape.
Alignment Advising
Our Alignment Advising services foster collaboration between key decision-makers. We work closely with board chairs and CEOs to strengthen their partnership, ensuring governance effectiveness and organizational success. Additionally, we provide tailored guidance to improve alignment and decision-making between board leaders, members, and committees, creating a seamless and highly functional environment.
M&A Implications
Mergers and acquisitions introduce new complexities, requiring boards to navigate transitions with precision and confidence. Our M&A-focused board services help strengthen boards throughout this process. We support boards and leadership teams through every stage of integration, from aligning board structure and composition with the organization’s strategy to guiding legacy boards through transition. We provide insights and tools to support long-term success.
Meet Laura Orr
Laura Orr, Senior Partner and Global Board Advisory Leader at WittKieffer, is recognized for her expertise in governance, strategic planning, and executive leadership. With two decades of experience, she advises boards and executive teams on governance optimization, succession planning, and leadership development, ensuring alignment with organizational strategy and long-term success.
Laura’s approach is rooted in best-in-class governance practices, tailored to the unique needs of each organization. Prior to joining WittKieffer, she founded Forward Governance Consulting, where she provided strategic counsel to boards in healthcare, academic medicine, and related industries. She also held leadership roles at Children’s Wisconsin and Le Bonheur Children’s Medical Center, driving governance transformation and strategic initiatives.
A certified executive coach and governance expert, Laura is an advisor for The Governance Institute, serves on non-profit boards in her local community, and actively contributes to advancing inclusive leadership through her work with Milwaukee Women Inc.