Senior leaders seeking professional growth connect with Kohl's Chairman to discuss paths to the boardroom . . .

As leadership expectations evolve, executives are increasingly seeking ways to expand their influence beyond day-to-day operations. One of the most impactful avenues for senior leaders is securing a board seat. However; the path to the boardroom isn’t always clear. From navigating recruitment processes to demonstrating value as a strategic advisor, positioning yourself for board leadership requires intentionality, expertise, and the right network.

At The DEN’s recent DEN Talk, industry leaders explored the journey to board service, providing insights into what it takes to stand out as a board candidate. The discussion uncovered key strategies for executives looking to transition into governance roles, offering a roadmap for those eager to elevate their careers and drive meaningful impact at the highest level of decision-making.

Check out the full discussion below, featuring insights and perspectives from our guest expert speaker Michael J. Bender, current Kohl's Chairman, and former C-level leader at Walmart and Eyemart Express. You can also scroll below for a summary of key takeaways, and the speaker bio.

Board Seats Are About More Than Titles

Michael emphasized that board roles are not just an extension of an executive career but a shift in responsibility. “Board members provide oversight, strategy, and governance—not day-to-day management,” he explained, urging leaders to refine their ability to advise rather than execute.

Identify Your Unique Value Proposition

Executives looking to join a board must articulate the expertise and perspective they bring to the table. The discussion highlighted the importance of aligning personal experience with board needs, whether in financial acumen, operational leadership, or industry-specific knowledge.

The Power of Networking and Visibility

A significant portion of board placements happens through connections. Michael encouraged aspiring board members to engage with existing board leaders, attend industry events, and build relationships that can open doors to opportunities. “Your next board seat is likely one conversation away,” he noted.

Readiness Requires Preparation

Beyond expertise and connections, positioning for a board role requires preparation. From understanding governance best practices to crafting a strong board bio, executives should proactively equip themselves with the knowledge and tools necessary for board service.

About Our Speaker . . .

Michael J. Bender | A C-level executive leader, advisor and board director across multiple industries, including consumer, retail, and technology. With an extensive leadership background at Walmart, Eyemart Express, Cardinal Health, Victoria's Secret and PepsiCo, he brings deep expertise in executive strategy, operational transformation, and governance.

Interested in learning more about development for board involvement?

Michael Bender mentioned several key resources to help executives prepare for board roles:

1. National Association of Corporate Directors (NACD) – A leading organization offering education, networking, and certification programs for aspiring and current board members.
2. Private Directors Association (PDA) – Focused on governance for private company boards, providing networking opportunities and insights on board service.
3. Board-Readiness Programs – Various universities and executive education programs offer board governance courses to build essential skills.
4. Networking & Mentorship – Engaging with current board members, attending industry events, and leveraging platforms like LinkedIn to connect with governance leaders.
5. Crafting a Strong Board Bio – Unlike a traditional resume, a board bio should highlight strategic expertise, governance mindset, and industry influence.

These resources can help executives refine their positioning, gain visibility, and build the necessary expertise to secure and succeed in a board role.

For any questions on the topic covered in this session, or to connect with our panelists directly, reach out to hello@theden.co.