A board of directors is responsible for guiding a company's strategic objectives, ensuring management implements those objectives, and safeguarding shareholders' interests. Key responsibilities include strategic planning, governance, financial oversight, risk management, leadership selection and oversight, stakeholder representation, legal and ethical oversight, approving significant business transactions, overseeing audits and compliance, community and social responsibility, board development, and conflict resolution. The structure of a board can vary, but common elements include a mix of executive and non-executive directors, a chairperson, committees, clearly defined roles, independence, terms and succession planning, diversity, regular meetings, training and development, evaluations, and possibly an advisory board. The "voice from the top" refers to the influential communication and guidance provided by the board, which shapes the corporate culture, strategic vision, and ethical standards.