The National Association of Corporate Directors (NACD) this week named IDEX Corporation (NYSE: IEX) Non-Executive Chairman William M. Cook as its “Public Company Director of the Year.”
NACD announced the award along with its 2021 Directorship 100 honorees, an annual recognition of the leading corporate directors, corporate governance experts, policymakers, and influencers who have made a significant impact on boardroom practices and performance.
“Genuinely humble and team-oriented, Bill naturally pulls important viewpoints from other board members, helping shape the necessary space for contemplation,” said Eric D. Ashleman, CEO and President of IDEX Corporation. “One of his greatest skills is how he forces us to do the work of validation in decision-making, helping us think critically about the alternatives presented.
“Never rattled, his sound judgement and critical thinking have been invaluable as we continue to develop and deploy trusted solutions that solve some of the world’s biggest challenges,” Ashleman said.
According to the NACD, the award recognizes those who represent the association’s principles of director professionalism: integrity, mature confidence, informed judgment, and high performance.
“The past year has demanded innovation and rapidly evolving solutions from board leaders across the country,” said Peter R. Gleason, president and CEO of NACD. “This year’s honorees—each of whom have been nominated by a peer—have demonstrated their individual excellence in governance, by serving their organizations and communities during the most challenging of times. They exemplify accomplishment and integrity and inspire others with their dedication to enhancing board leadership.”
Mr. Cook is also Non-Executive Chairman of the Board of Neenah, Inc. and is a Director of Axalta Coating Systems Ltd.
Honorees will be recognized during the 2021 NACD Directorship Awards Virtual Gala on November 9, 2021 and highlighted in NACD Directorship magazine’s Annual List of the Most Influential People in Boardrooms and Corporate Governance, appearing in the magazine’s November/December 2021 issue.