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Google CEO on Apple's Board of Directors: What will he do?

Google CEO Eric Schmidt new Board Member of Apple: What will his actual “job
Written by Donna Bogatin, Contributor

The strategic implications of Google CEO Eric Schmidt joining the Apple Board of Directors is rich for speculative fodder, but so is pondering what Schmidt’s actual “job” with “Jobs” will entail.

Schmidt said of his appointment:

Apple is one of the companies in the world that I most admire. I'm really looking forward to working with Steve and Apple's board to help with all of the amazing things Apple is doing.

How can Schmidt help as a member of Apple’s Board? Will he be an “activist” Board member? Will he be a “ceremonial” Board member?

It is unlikely Schmidt’s role will reflect a Board Member’s responsibilities as defined in “Overview of Roles and Responsibilities of Corporate Board of Directors,” by Carter McNamara, PhD:

1. Determine the Organization's Mission and Purpose
2. Select the Executive
3. Support the Executive and Review His or Her Performance
4. Ensure Effective Organizational Planning
5. Ensure Adequate Resources
6. Manage Resources Effectively
7. Determine and Monitor the Organization's Programs and Services
8. Enhance the Organization's Public Image
9. Serve as a Court of Appeal
10. Assess Its Own Performance

Wikipedia acknowledges the uncertain role of a Board member in its disclaimer to its “Board of Directors” entry:

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