By: Mark Stone

Corporate governance often seems like an abstract concept reserved for large, publicly traded companies. However, Andrew Usuki, the bestselling author of Charged Governance: Transformative Corporate Governance Principles for Private Businesses, is changing that perception. With his extensive experience as an investment banker, manufacturing executive, shareholder, and investor, Usuki simplifies this complex subject and brings it to life. His book not only makes governance accessible but also demonstrates its critical role in long-term business success.

Making Corporate Governance Practical and Understandable

In Charged Governance, Usuki outlines a governance framework that highlights five key stakeholders: shareholders; directors; employees, customers, and suppliers; creditors and acquirers; and legacy founders. This structured approach helps business owners navigate governance with clarity and confidence. Unlike many corporate governance discussions that are grounded in current events, Usuki challenges leaders to keep a north star of long-term value creation, while striving to include topics such as legal compliance, accountability, and business sustainability.

A particularly compelling aspect of Usuki’s work is his focus on the personal anxieties that founders face. He understands that running a business comes with immense pressure, and he provides practical governance strategies that reduce stress and create lasting success. By implementing sound governance practices, founders can improve business valuation, minimize legal liabilities, and build a legacy that endures beyond their direct involvement.

Governance: A Tool for Stability and Success

So, how does Usuki define private business corporate governance? According to him, “The primary goal is long-term shareholder value creation. But, the means to this end should be carefully calibrated with checks and balances, and in accordance with business laws. Also, exercising corporate democracy between owners and decision-makers is fundamental to corporate governance for private businesses.”

He stresses the importance of checks and balances, noting that businesses operating in a vacuum—without proper governance—often make questionable decisions that can lead to catastrophic unintended consequences. Legal adherence is non-negotiable, as governance extends to critical areas such as director fiduciary duties, business relationships, employee well-being, and managing external stakeholders, including suppliers, customers, lenders, and the broader community.

A Career Built on Experience and Passion

Usuki’s career path is as dynamic as his insights on governance. Coming from a family with Japanese and Italian immigrant roots, he was raised with a strong work ethic and a belief in pursuing passions. His first experiences in leadership and accountability came at just fourteen years old when he started working part-time jobs.

His professional journey began in investment banking on Wall Street, where he honed his ability to assess business value while advising companies and governments on capital-raising, acquisitions, and sales. After earning his MBA, he transitioned into manufacturing at a Fortune 100 company, gaining hands-on experience in managing and integrating newly acquired business divisions.

Feeling ready to branch out on his own, Usuki launched his own advisory firm. However, he recognized that many business challenges stemmed from governance issues that had been left unaddressed for years. To deepen his expertise, he pursued a law degree at Delaware Law School, which is renowned for its connection to Delaware’s corporate law. The knowledge he gained from both his academic and professional experiences is distilled into Charged Governance, making it a must-read for business owners seeking clarity on governance.

Meaningful Results for Founders

What can founders expect when they implement Usuki’s governance principles? According to him, the benefits are clear:

Enhanced Business Valuation: A well-governed business is more attractive to investors and potential buyers.

Reduced Stress and Anxiety: By structuring governance effectively, founders can shift focus to accelerate strategic growth rather than firefighting internal issues.

Minimized Legal Risks: Proper governance ensures compliance with laws and regulations, reducing exposure to liabilities. Creating a board with fiduciary directors can bolster this effort.

Stronger Legacy: A business with strong governance can thrive beyond the founder’s direct involvement, creating a lasting impact.

By organizing corporate governance into five key constituencies, Usuki provides a roadmap that makes this traditionally complex subject both practical and accessible. His approach challenges the notion that governance is a bureaucratic burden; instead, he positions it as a powerful tool for business growth and sustainability.

What’s Next for Andrew Usuki?

Beyond Charged Governance, Usuki is already developing new projects that blend his expertise in business and law with his creative side. While he hasn’t revealed specific details yet, his commitment to sharing knowledge and making business practices more effective remains a driving force.

Usuki’s work is helpful for private business owners. By making corporate governance understandable and actionable, he empowers founders to build businesses that not only succeed in the short term but also thrive for generations to come. Whether you’re a startup entrepreneur, a seasoned business owner, or an investor, Charged Governance is an invaluable resource that delivers real-world strategies for lasting success.

Published by Joseph T.