Board Voices

As the Club enters its 10th decade, four governors look ahead to the coming year.

When it comes to board diversity in Japan, the Club is conspicuous. Following last year’s Board of Governors election, four of the 14 governors are women. That 28 percent female representation ratio eclipses the 3.8 percent average for Japanese companies. 

The Japanese government is targeting 10 percent by 2020, but that figure still falls far short of the rate in countries like Norway, whose quota system has led to an average of more than 40 percent female board representation.

“Several studies have shown that gender equity in senior management and at the board level brings many tangible benefits,” wrote British entrepreneur Richard Branson a few years ago. 

As some companies inch their way toward greater board diversity, the Club’s female governors offer their thoughts on the upcoming year for the Club. 

Christina Siegel
Why did you decide to run for the Board?
The Club has been the focus of my family’s daily life since coming to Japan in 2016. The Club is owned and run by its Members and I am delighted to be able to participate as a citizen on this Board.

Which particular Club issues do you want to focus on this year?
I encourage Members to join a committee and attend town halls this year. Let us work together to create and nurture the very best Club experience for all Members and guests. I want to focus on listening to Members and hearing what they have to say about the Club.

What changes do you hope to see at the Club in 2019 and beyond?
With next year’s Olympics and the opening of the satellite club at Nihonbashi the same year, we can expect changes over the next two years. We need to work together to reap the rewards of these ventures. May the Club go from strength to strength.

Betsy Rogers
Why did you decide to run for the Board?
As a long-term Member and frequent user of the Club, the position allows me to act as a Member liaison, communicating different needs and views to the Board and committees. I also gain a deeper understanding of how our Club operates. 

Which particular Club issues do you want to focus on this year?
Having fun engaging the Membership and building a sense of community, as well as working to create memorable experiences for the 2020 Olympics and planning the Club’s long-range future.

What changes do you hope to see at the Club in 2019 and beyond?
I hope we can continue to grow our internationally diverse and dynamic Membership through meaningful recreation, intellectual and social programs while working with our competent staff to evaluate what we are doing well and what we could be doing better.

Heidi Regent
Why did you decide to run for the Board?
As an educator, I have always felt empowered to make a positive difference in the community. I believe in bringing about change so that communities can improve and thrive. I enjoy collaborating, learning from people and growing personally from new experiences.

Which particular Club issues do you want to focus on this year?
I would like to create a further sense of community by having more Members become engaged with the Club. The Club has a diverse population of families and professionals that could interact through committees and events.

What changes do you hope to see at the Club in 2019 and beyond?
I would like the Club to evolve in terms of formats and venues. I am hopeful that Members will be receptive to positive transformations that offer something for everyone.

Trista Bridges Bivens
Why did you decide to run for the Board?
Impressed by the Club’s vibrant community, staff professionalism and world-class facilities, I wanted to explore new and creative ways to enhance value for our Members and the Club.

Which particular Club issues do you want to focus on this year?
I see Member engagement as an important area. With our upcoming role as USA House during the Olympics and the Nihonbashi satellite club project, 2020 will be an active year. Stepping up Member participation in committees and other activities will be critical to making those two initiatives a success and continuing to provide an excellent experience for our Members.

What changes do you hope to see at the Club in 2019 and beyond?
In addition to Member engagement, I think exploring new ways to facilitate the Club’s financial sustainability and expand our brand will be increasingly important. Ongoing enhancements and larger-scale initiatives, such as the Nihonbashi satellite club, are great examples on which to build.

Words: Nick Jones
Image: Benjamin Parks
Photo (l–r): Christina Siegel, Betsy Rogers, Heidi Regent and Trista Bridges Bivens