styrelseval

Styrelseval is the process by which a organization’s or company’s board (styrelse) is elected. In Sweden, the election is typically held at the annual general meeting (årsstämma) or a specially convened meeting. The board members are entrusted with governance, oversight of management, and strategic directions; in many companies the board also appoints the CEO and monitors executive performance. The exact structure, including the number of board members and whether deputies (suppleanter) are used, is defined in the organization’s articles of association (stadgar or bolagsordning).

Scope and forms: Styrelseval occurs in various types of entities, including aktiebolag (AB, limited companies), ekonomiska föreningar, and stiftelser. In an AB, shareholders elect the board; in a ekonomisk förening and other associations, members elect the board at general meetings. The rules governing eligibility, term length, and re-election are specified in statute and the organization’s governing documents. In listed or larger companies, a nomination committee (valberedning) may prepare a slate of candidates to present to the meeting.

Election process: Nominations can come from the organization itself, a nomination committee, or members. Voting methods can be open or secret, and in many contexts each share may carry one vote. The candidates with the required majority or, in some cases, the largest number of votes are elected. If a seat becomes vacant, replacements may be appointed according to the bylaws or statutes.

Terms and independence: Board terms are commonly one to three years, with the possibility of re-election. For listed companies, independence requirements are often emphasized, ensuring that a portion of the board is independent of major shareholders. Styrelseval is thus central to governance, shaping leadership and oversight for the coming period.