Membership

The Institute offers a rare combination of peer trust, intellectual rigor, and practical relevance—all within a university-based, non-commercial setting.

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A Deliberately Limited, High-Trust Community 

To preserve depth, candor, and trusted relationships, membership is intentionally limited to approximately 50–75 organizations. Each member organization is represented by two leaders: the CHRO/CPO and a designated senior leader (direct report or C-suite peer)—reflecting our belief that exceptional leaders develop leaders.

Please contact our Director of Operations Sandy Keldsen at zarotney@bu.edu to explore membership opportunity.

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Membership includes:

  • Two full executive seats 
  • Participation in two annual summits 
  • Access to curated salons throughout the year 
  • Engagement in collaborative learning initiatives 
  • Direct interaction with BU faculty and scholars 
  • Participation in research activities and field experimentation   

There are no additional fees for core programming. 

A Select Community of Companies

The Institute convenes the people behind the people—senior leaders from some of the world’s most significant companies—committed to advancing leadership and meaningful work.

A Board-Ready Investment

For Boards of Directors, membership represents a disciplined investment in enterprise leadership capability. Leaders gain year-round access to research, peer insight, governance perspectives, and forward-looking analysis focused on material workforce and leadership risks facing the enterprise. The Institute strengthens enterprise readiness while preserving independence from commercial influence. 

Member Commitments

  • Flexible participation; no mandatory attendance requirements   
  • Active engagement when participating 
  • Strict adherence to Chatham House Rules   
  • A non-solicitation norm to preserve trust   

These norms ensure psychological safety and intellectual honesty. 

Spring Summit
April 22-23

The Spring 2026 Summit includes an opening reception and a full day of programming at Boston University Questrom School of Business, featuring keynote conversations, expert panels, research lightning rounds, and facilitated discussion with senior peers. Expect practical takeaways, fresh perspectives, and time for real conversation.

Meetings are for members only. Please contact our Director of Operations Sandy Keldsen at zarotney@bu.edu to register.

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Contact the Institute for Leadership & Work

Interesting in learning more? We can answer any questions you may have and help explore membership opportunities. Complete the form or contact our team at ilwbu@bu.edu.

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