4th Corporate Governance Conference
مؤتمر الحوكمة

17-18 December 2025 at DoubleTree by Hilton, Financial District, Riyadh

Overview

In today's rapidly evolving business landscape, corporate governance is no longer solely about financial performance—it is about balancing productivity, people, and the planet. Companies worldwide are under growing pressure to drive sustainable growth while ensuring ethical decision-making, fostering a positive work environment, and minimizing environmental impact. 

Saudi Arabia, through its Vision 2030 initiative, is spearheading a transformation that demands enhanced governance practices to support long-term economic, social, and environmental well-being. As organizations navigate the complexities of global competition, technological advancements, and regulatory shifts, the need for robust governance frameworks that integrate sustainability, human capital development, and productivity has never been more critical. 

The Fourth Corporate Governance Conference by Alfaisal University will convene leading academicians, policymakers, business leaders, and governance experts to explore how good governance can drive corporate success while ensuring long-term benefits for stakeholders, employees, and the environment. Discussions will focus on governance strategies that foster corporate responsibility, innovation, and resilience, helping businesses remain competitive while aligning with societal and environmental priorities. 

As a key highlight, the Alfaisal Corporate Governance Center (CGC)—which evaluates and ranks companies based on best corporate governance principles and practices—will present the findings of its latest Corporate Governance Assessment for Saudi listed companies. The conference will also feature the prestigious Corporate Governance Excellence Awards, recognizing the best-performing companies in Saudi Arabia that exemplify outstanding governance, transparency, and sustainability practices. 

This conference will provide a dynamic platform for knowledge exchange, networking, and collaboration on key governance challenges and opportunities. Keynote speakers from academia and industry will share insights on governance best practices, ESG-driven decision-making, and the evolving role of boards in driving responsible business. Participants will gain valuable perspectives on good governance principles, practices and corporate strategies, fostering ethical leadership, and leveraging governance as a tool for long-term value creation. 

By bringing together experts and practitioners, this conference aims to advance corporate governance discussions in Saudi Arabia and beyond, shaping policies and practices that support sustainable economic growth while prioritizing people and the planet alongside productivity.

Why Attend?

  • Gain exclusive insights from governance and compliance experts.
  • Stay ahead with the latest trends, strategies, and best practices.
  • Network with industry leaders, decision-makers, and peers.
  • Discover innovative solutions to enhance corporate governance and risk management.

Target Audience

This conference is designed to appeal to a wide range of professionals and academics interested in corporate governance: 

  • Academicians
  • Regulators
  • Lawyers
  • Consultants
  • Researchers
  • Company top executives (CEOs, CFOs, etc.)
  • Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) professionals
  • Corporate Investment professionals
  • Social Investment professionals
  • Corporate Sustainability professionals
  • Board Members and Secretaries
  • Human Resources (HR) professionals
  • Marketing and Public Relations professionals
  • Corporate Communications professionals

Key Themes of the 2025 Edition:
The Fourth Corporate Governance Conference will explore the evolving role of governance in enhancing productivity, empowering people, and preserving the planet. It will emphasize the need for companies to move beyond traditional financial performance metrics and embrace sustainable, people-centric governance models that drive long-term value creation. 

1. Good Governance for Productivity, People & Planet 

  • Examining how corporate governance can balance financial performance, social responsibility, and environmental sustainability.
  • Exploring governance frameworks that align business objectives with ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) principles.
  • Discussing the role of corporate boards in fostering sustainable business strategies and long-term value creation.

 2. Productivity & Corporate Governance: Driving Sustainable Growth 

  • Analyzing governance strategies that enhance efficiency, innovation, and corporate resilience.
  • Examining the role of governance in fostering a culture of accountability, transparency, and ethical leadership to boost productivity.
  • Discussing how board oversight, executive incentives, and performance metrics influence corporate growth and success.

 3. Governance for People: Human Capital, Diversity & Workplace Well-Being 

  • Exploring the role of governance in fostering employee engagement, diversity, and leadership development.
  • Examining the impact of board diversity on decision-making, risk management, and innovation.
  • Discussing corporate governance policies that promote fair wages, ethical labor practices, and employee well-being.

 4. Governance & Environmental Responsibility: The Role of Boards in Sustainability 

  • Addressing how governance can drive climate action, resource efficiency, and sustainable business practices.
  • Exploring global trends, regulatory frameworks, and investor expectations around corporate sustainability.
  • Discussing corporate disclosures, ESG reporting, and accountability mechanisms for environmental impact.

 5. Transparency, Accountability & Ethical Decision-Making 

  • Addressing the role of corporate disclosures, whistleblower protections, and independent audits in fostering trust.
  • Examining mechanisms to prevent fraud, corruption, and conflicts of interest in corporate governance.
  • Exploring how governance structures can improve stakeholder communication and public trust.

 6. The Alfaisal CGC Corporate Governance Index: Findings & Best Practices 

  • Presenting key insights from Alfaisal Corporate Governance Center’s (CGC) latest assessment of listed companies.
  • Highlighting best-performing companies and their governance strategies.
  • Discussing emerging governance trends and areas for improvement in Saudi Arabia and beyond.

 7. The Future of Corporate Governance: AI, Digital Transformation & Data Ethics 

  • Examining the role of AI, blockchain, and digitalization in reshaping corporate governance.
  • Addressing the ethical and regulatory challenges of AI-driven decision-making.
  • Exploring data privacy, cybersecurity, and digital risk management in corporate governance.

8. Corporate Governance & Risk Management: Navigating Uncertainty in a Changing World

  • Exploring how corporate governance frameworks can help businesses anticipate, mitigate, and respond to risks in an evolving global landscape.
  • Addressing financial, operational, and reputational risks through strong governance structures.
  • Discussing the role of boards and executives in crisis management, resilience building, and ethical leadership.

 9. Governance in Family-Owned Businesses & SMEs: Balancing Tradition & Innovation 

  • Examining governance challenges and best practices for family-owned enterprises and small-to-medium-sized businesses (SMEs).
  • Discussing strategies for ensuring succession planning, conflict resolution, and professionalized management.
  • Exploring how family businesses can integrate sustainability, innovation, and strong governance principles to enhance long-term success.

 10.Global Capital Flows & the Role of Governance in Attracting Investment 

  • Analyzing how corporate governance frameworks influence investor confidence and foreign capital inflows.
  • Discussing the role of institutional investors, sovereign wealth funds, and private equity in governance evolution.
  • Exploring governance best practices for multinational companies and cross-border investments.

 11. The Role of Regulation & Policy in Advancing Corporate Governance 

  • Examining Saudi Arabia’s evolving regulatory landscape and its impact on governance.
  • Discussing global governance standards and their applicability in emerging markets.
  • Exploring policy initiatives that enhance transparency, accountability, and corporate social responsibility.

Dr. Necati Aydin

Executive Director of Corporate Governance Center, College of Business, Alfaisal University

Conference Chair

Dr. Izedin El Kalak

Associate Professor, Department of Finance, College of Business, Alfaisal University

Dr. Wael Louhichi

Professor, Department of Finance, College of Business, Alfaisal University

Dr. Jan (John) Smolarski

Associate Professor, Department of Accounting, College of Business, Alfaisal University

Dr. Brendan John Lambe

Associate Professor, Department of Finance, College of Business, Alfaisal University

Dr. Robert Naji Zacca

Assistant Professor, Department of Management

Dr. Haitham A. AL-Zoubi

Professor, Department of Finance, College of Business, Alfaisal University

Dr. Hayat Khan

Associate Professor, Department of Finance, College of Business, Alfaisal University

Dr. Rami Bustami

Associate Professor, Department of Management, College of Business, Alfaisal University

Dr. Ahmed Alanazi

Assistant Professor, Department of Finance, College of Business, Alfaisal University

Dr. Ruba Subhi Hamed

Assistant Professor, Department of Accounting, College of Business, Alfaisal University

Dr. Rahma Lahyani

Assistant Professor, Department of Operations and Project Management

New Title

Submit Your Abstract Please complete the following form:

We invite submissions for academic papers that explore cutting-edge topics related to the conference theme. Scholars, researchers, and practitioners are encouraged to contribute their insights on corporate governance and its intersections with sustainability, technology (including artificial intelligence), and responsible leadership.

📚 Submission Guidelines:
  • We are accepting 300-word abstract submissions on relevant topics under the conference theme.
  • Submissions will be reviewed on a rolling basis, with decisions communicated within one month of submission.
  • The extended abstract should include:
    • A brief background of the topic
    • The aims of the paper
    • Research questions
    • Methodology
    • Concepts developed (for conceptual papers)
    • Key findings or expected findings (for empirical papers)
  • Submission Deadline: October 15, 2025
  • We look forward to your valuable contributions and to welcoming you to Riyadh for a dynamic gathering of thought leaders committed to advancing good governance for a better future.
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Maximize your brand’s visibility and influence at the Corporate Governance Conference 2025, the premier event for governance professionals, board members, policymakers, and industry leaders.
This is your opportunity to showcase your expertise, connect with key decision-makers, and position your company as a leader in corporate governance, compliance, and ethical leadership.


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Don't miss the opportunity to be part of the Corporate Governance Conference 2025! 

This premier event brings together governance professionals, board members, policymakers, and industry leaders to explore the latest trends, challenges, and best practices in corporate governance.

Delegate Benefits:
  • Access to All Sessions – Attend keynote presentations, panel discussions, and expert-led sessions on governance frameworks, risk management, compliance, and ethical leadership.
  • Workshops – Participate in interactive workshops designed to provide hands-on knowledge and practical governance strategies.
  • Networking Opportunities – Connect with board members, industry professionals, and key decision-makers during dedicated networking sessions, coffee breaks, and social events.
  • Conference Materials – Receive exclusive conference materials, including presentation slides, speaker bios, and research reports.
  • Certificate of Attendance – Obtain a certificate recognizing your participation in this essential governance event.
Join us in shaping the future of corporate governance. Secure your spot today!

Registeration Fees: SAR 5000 + VAT

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Join us at the premier Corporate Governance Conference (CGC), the leading forum dedicated to advancing governance excellence and accountability in Saudi Arabia and the GCC region