The Directors to Watch: Racial & Ethnic Diversity Class of 2025 highlights 24 significant and diverse directors who have contributed to and will continue to expand ongoing dialogue on board best practices and corporate governance excellence.
Gwen Bingham
Owens & Minor
Retired U.S. Army Lieutenant General Gwen Bingham is a seasoned global leader who served 38 years as a career logistician. Since 2020, she has been an independent director for Owens & Minor and has served as chair of its governance and nominating committee and on its executive committee.
She was named a CNN “Champion for Change” and is the recipient of numerous awards and accolades. She chairs the board of Blue Star Families, a nonprofit organization that advocates for service members and their families.
She has a bachelor's degree in commerce and business administration from The University of Alabama and master's degrees in administration from Central Michigan University and national security strategy and resources from the National Defense University.
The war for talent should be a top priority. “Succession planning and executive development are critical functions of every board. In strategic planning sessions, directors and management must be intentional about continually assessing the strength of internal leaders, while evaluating where external talent may best strengthen the organization. Often, a designated executive management firm can help management and the board track key milestones associated with the company's strategic trajectory and long-term pursuits. Where professional gaps exist, this “triad” can pursue development strategies that affect action plans with measurable outcomes and metrics. Ultimately, company success is ensuring it has the talent and capabilities to deliver on the strategic plan.”