The Directors to Watch: Gender Diversity Class of 2024 highlights 21 significant and diverse directors who have contributed to and will continue to expand ongoing dialogue on board best practices and corporate governance excellence.
Edwina Payne
Director, Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta
Edwina Payne is a global business leader with a history of success in life sciences, consumer goods and banking. With over three decades of experience, she has driven results and demonstrated exceptional leadership in technology strategy development, digital transformations, supply chain strategy, M&A and cybersecurity programs.
Her career spans roles as CIO in both consumer-packaged goods and medical device companies, including Kellogg's, Johnson & Johnson and Zimmer Biomet, as well as global roles based in the United States and Latin America.
Payne serves on the board of Federal Home Loan Bank of Atlanta and is a member of the audit, governance & compensation, and enterprise risk and operations committees. She also serves on the board of The Task Force for Global Health and several nonprofit organizations.
Diversity fosters resilience, adaptability and long-term success. “Having directors with diverse backgrounds is critical to a successful board of directors, as it brings a broad background of perspectives, expertise and insights to the decision-making process. Diversity in backgrounds ensures that a wide range of viewpoints are considered, leading to more comprehensive oversight and strategic planning. It enhances risk management by mitigating groupthink and encourages thorough analysis of opportunities and challenges from various angles. Additionally, diverse backgrounds foster inclusivity, reflecting the global marketplace and broadening the board’s ability to connect with stakeholders. Ultimately, this diversity fosters resilience, adaptability and long-term success for the organization and a stronger board.”