Corporate governance advisory companies play a critical role in ensuring that businesses adhere to best practices in governance. These firms provide a wide range of services, including shareholder engagement, proxy solicitation, compliance consulting, and ESG advisory. As regulatory environments evolve globally, the demand for these services has increased significantly, reflecting a growing emphasis on transparency and accountability. The industry is also adapting to technological advancements, incorporating data analytics tools for enhanced insights, which positions them favorably for the future. In this space, companies are continuously innovating their offerings to meet the changing needs of clients across various sectors.


This list features 21 corporate governance advisory companies, highlighting firms of varying sizes headquartered across North America, Europe, and Asia. Founded between 1986 and 2021, these advisory firms specialize in essential services such as mergers and acquisitions, shareholder engagement, and governance consulting. Smaller firms often emphasize personalized client service, while larger players can offer expansive global expertise and resources. Companies like Glass, Lewis & Co. and Brunswick Group demonstrate strong market presence and technical acumen, thereby addressing diverse governance needs across the investor landscape.


Top 21 Corporate Governance Advisory Companies


1. Glass, Lewis & Co.

  • Website: glasslewis.com
  • Ownership type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: Ireland 34%, United States (USA) 23%, Philippines 22%, Other 21%
  • Latest funding: March 2021
  • Founded year: 2003
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • LinkedIn: glass-lewis-%26-co-

Glass, Lewis & Co. is a proxy advisory firm based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2003. The company specializes in providing governance solutions and research services to institutional investors, assisting them in making informed voting decisions and managing corporate governance issues. With a workforce of approximately 575 employees, Glass Lewis covers over 30,000 meetings each year across global markets. Their services include proxy voting, stewardship solutions, and cybersecurity risk evaluation, reflecting their commitment to addressing contemporary governance challenges. The firm serves a wide array of clients, including major pension plans, mutual funds, and asset managers, collectively managing over $40 trillion in assets. Their focus on ESG data and policy guidelines further positions them as a key player in the corporate governance advisory space.


2. Innisfree M&A Incorporated

  • Website: innisfreema.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 98%, Other 2%
  • Founded year: 1997
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: innisfree-m%26a-inc.

Innisfree M&A Incorporated, founded in 1997 and based in New York City, is a consulting firm that specializes in mergers and acquisitions, corporate governance, and shareholder engagement. With a team of experts, Innisfree provides tailored advice to corporations and institutional investors, helping them navigate complex financial landscapes. Their services include guidance on contested situations, annual meetings, and executive compensation, all aimed at enhancing corporate governance practices. The firm is also involved in stock surveillance and shareholder identification, ensuring that clients are well-informed about their shareholder base. Innisfree's commitment to corporate governance is further reflected in their proactive approach to shareholder engagement, making them a relevant player in this advisory sector.


3. Kingsdale Advisors

  • Website: kingsdaleadvisors.com
  • Ownership type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Toronto, Ontario, Canada
  • Employee distribution: Canada 86%, United States (USA) 8%, Barbados 6%
  • Latest funding: February 2014
  • Founded year: 2003
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: kingsdale-advisors

Kingsdale Advisors, based in Toronto, Ontario, is an advisory firm that specializes in shareholder and governance advisory services. Established in 2003, the firm has built a reputation for providing tailored solutions to public companies across North America. Their services include proxy solicitation, mergers and acquisitions, defensive and strategic advisory, governance advisory, and compensation advisory. Kingsdale Advisors has been instrumental in helping companies engage with shareholders and navigate the complexities of compliance and activism. They have been recognized as Canada's top proxy solicitor and have a strong track record in managing proxy contests and advising on governance matters. Their team consists of industry experts who are committed to delivering customized solutions to meet the unique needs of their clients.


4. ISS Corporate Solutions (ICS)


ISS Corporate Solutions (ICS), founded in 1997 and based in Rockville, Maryland, is a consulting firm that specializes in corporate governance, executive compensation, sustainability, and cyber risk management. The company offers expert advisory services, robust data analytics, and innovative software solutions to help organizations navigate the complexities of governance and stakeholder management. With a client roster that includes over 2,000 corporations and organizations across North America, Europe, and Asia, ICS is well-versed in the challenges faced by businesses today. Their services are designed to assist companies in aligning their governance frameworks with strategic objectives while managing risks effectively. ICS has also made strides in the sustainability sector, acquiring software providers to enhance their offerings in this area. Their commitment to providing actionable insights and data-driven solutions positions them as a valuable partner for companies seeking to improve their governance practices.


5. Brunswick Group

  • Website: brunswickgroup.com
  • Ownership type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 33%, United Kingdom (UK) 27%, Germany 8%, Other 32%
  • Latest funding: $74.5M, June 2021
  • Founded year: 1987
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • LinkedIn: brunswick-group

Brunswick Group is an advisory firm established in 1987, headquartered in London, UK. With a workforce of over 1,500 employees, the firm specializes in addressing business-critical issues for clients across various sectors. Their services include investor engagement, crisis management, regulatory compliance, and governance advisory. Brunswick Group has a global presence, with offices in key cities such as New York, San Francisco, and Hong Kong, allowing them to support clients in navigating complex financial, political, and social challenges. The firm has also received significant funding, amounting to approximately $74.5 million in June 2021, which underscores their growth and ongoing relevance in the advisory space.


6. Alliance Advisors

  • Website: allianceadvisors.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Bloomfield, New Jersey, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 87%, United Kingdom (UK) 6%, Canada 3%, Other 4%
  • Founded year: 2005
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: alliance-advisors-llc_2

Alliance Advisors, founded in 2005 and based in Bloomfield, New Jersey, is an independent advisory firm that specializes in shareholder engagement and corporate governance. With a team of experts drawn from various sectors of the financial services industry, they offer a range of services tailored to public companies. These services include shareholder meeting advisory, compensation and governance consulting, sustainability strategies, and support for mergers and acquisitions. The firm has built a robust client base, serving over 1,200 public companies across different industries and market capitalizations. Their approach combines strategic insight with practical execution, helping clients navigate the complexities of shareholder dynamics and governance challenges. Alliance Advisors operates globally, with offices in key financial hubs including New York, London, Toronto, and Hong Kong, reflecting their commitment to providing comprehensive support to clients worldwide.


7. Okapi Partners

  • Website: okapipartners.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 96%, United Kingdom (UK) 4%
  • Founded year: 2008
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: okapi-partners-llc

Okapi Partners is a consulting firm based in New York City, established in 2008. The company specializes in corporate governance and proxy solicitation services, catering to a range of clients including corporations, hedge funds, and private equity firms. Their services are designed to assist clients in managing shareholder relations and navigating the complexities of voting processes. Okapi Partners has developed a reputation for its expertise in areas such as mergers and acquisitions, investment fund proxy services, and shareholder activism. They offer tailored strategies that ensure successful outcomes for their clients, leveraging their extensive industry relationships and intellectual capital. Notably, Okapi Partners has been recognized as the number one proxy solicitor in the U.S. and for global activist representations in 2023 by Bloomberg, highlighting their significant role in the corporate governance advisory sector. The firm operates primarily in the United States, with a small presence in the United Kingdom, and has a team of experienced professionals dedicated to delivering results-oriented strategies for their clients.


8. PIRC Limited

  • Website: pirc.co.uk
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Employee distribution: United Kingdom (UK) 100%
  • Founded year: 1986
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: pirc-limited

PIRC Limited, established in 1986, is an ESG consulting firm based in London, UK. The company specializes in responsible investment services, offering a comprehensive suite of solutions that include advice, research, engagement, and voting services. PIRC is dedicated to helping institutional investors navigate the complexities of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) risks. With a team of experienced professionals, PIRC has built a reputation for providing insightful analysis that goes beyond standard corporate disclosures. They engage directly with companies and their boards to advocate for high standards of corporate governance, ensuring that their clients' interests are represented effectively. PIRC has a strong connection with local authority pension funds and continues to support these entities in meeting their regulatory and ESG needs. Their services are designed to enhance clients' ESG performance and facilitate informed decision-making in the investment process.


9. Institutional Investor Advisory Services (IiAS)


Institutional Investor Advisory Services India Limited (IiAS) is an advisory firm based in Mumbai, Maharashtra, India, established in 2010. The company focuses on corporate governance and proxy advisory services, providing essential tools and insights to institutional investors and companies. IiAS offers a range of products, including voting recommendations, governance scorecards, and ESG advisory services, aimed at helping clients navigate shareholder resolutions and enhance their governance practices. With a strong emphasis on transparency and accountability, IiAS has covered over 1,000 companies and facilitated more than 13,000 shareholder meetings, delivering over 71,000 voting recommendations. Their commitment to corporate governance is further highlighted by their independent research, which shapes the engagement framework between companies and their stakeholders. IiAS also operates a subsidiary, IiAS Sustain, which focuses on workplace safety and sustainability issues, reflecting their broader commitment to responsible corporate practices.


10. SquareWell Partners

  • Website: squarewell-partners.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Employee distribution: United Kingdom (UK) 68%, Italy 21%, France 11%
  • Founded year: 2018
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: squarewell-partners

SquareWell Partners is a corporate advisory firm based in London and Paris, founded in 2018. The firm specializes in shareholder engagement and corporate governance, providing strategic advice to large corporations and institutional investors. Their expertise lies in navigating complex shareholder relations, focusing on activism, governance structures, and effective communication. SquareWell has positioned itself as a trusted advisor, particularly in activist situations, and has been recognized by Bloomberg for its performance in this area. The firm also emphasizes the importance of aligning corporate strategies with shareholder interests, which is crucial in today's investment climate. Their insights and reports on topics such as ESG and shareholder proposals reflect their commitment to enhancing governance practices across various markets. With a team that combines experience and knowledge, SquareWell Partners plays a significant role in shaping corporate governance discussions and practices.


11. Ownership Matters


Ownership Matters, based in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, is a private consulting firm established in 2011. The company specializes in governance and shareholder rights, offering a range of services designed to assist institutional investors in navigating the complexities of corporate governance. Their offerings include monitoring governance risks, promoting evidence-based public debate on governance issues, and providing training workshops tailored for institutional investors. They maintain a Governance Concerns Index that evaluates governance risks among ASX 300 companies, showcasing their analytical capabilities. Ownership Matters is dedicated to enhancing the understanding and management of corporate governance among its clients, which primarily consist of businesses and organizations in the investment sector. Their commitment to advocacy and research in governance issues further solidifies their role in the industry.


12. MacKenzie Partners, Inc.

  • Website: mackenziepartners.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 1990
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: mackenziepartners

MacKenzie Partners, Inc. is a consulting firm based in New York City, founded in 1990. The company specializes in proxy solicitation, securities expertise, and corporate governance consulting. With a team of around 32 experienced professionals, MacKenzie Partners has developed a strong foothold in the financial services sector. They provide strategic advice and execution services primarily for businesses involved in mergers and acquisitions. Their offerings include proxy solicitation, corporate governance consulting, and market intelligence services. The firm has been involved in numerous high-stakes transactions, providing clients with insights and strategies to effectively communicate with shareholders and navigate complex corporate governance challenges. Their extensive experience in proxy contests and corporate control situations further underscores their expertise in the field.


13. Proxinvest

  • Website: proxinvest.fr
  • Ownership type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Paris, Île-De-France, France
  • Employee distribution: France 100%
  • Latest funding: December 2022
  • Founded year: 1995
  • Headcount: 1-10
  • LinkedIn: proxinvest

Proxinvest, founded in 1995 and based in Paris, is a consulting firm that specializes in proxy voting and corporate governance analysis. The company provides Proxy Reports that offer comprehensive insights into shareholder structures, governance practices, and tailored voting recommendations for institutional investors. Their reports are published shortly before general meetings, ensuring that clients have timely information to make informed decisions. Proxinvest also operates a subscription-based platform that enhances the decision-making process for its clients. With a dedicated focus on corporate governance, Proxinvest has established itself as a knowledgeable entity in the field, catering to the needs of organizations looking to navigate the complexities of shareholder meetings and governance issues.


14. Sodali & Co

  • Website: sodali.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: Australia 28%, United States (USA) 26%, United Kingdom (UK) 23%, Other 22%
  • Founded year: 2006
  • Headcount: 501-1000
  • LinkedIn: morrowsodali

Sodali & Co is a consulting firm based in New York, specializing in corporate governance and stakeholder management. Established in 2006, the company has grown to employ between 501 and 1000 professionals across various global locations, including Australia, the United States, the United Kingdom, Italy, and Hong Kong. Sodali & Co provides a comprehensive range of advisory services designed to assist multinationals and private companies in navigating complex shareholder dynamics. Their offerings include board evaluations, ESG consultation, governance training, and crisis management, among others. The firm is recognized for its expertise in investor relations and sustainability advisory, helping clients align their strategies with stakeholder expectations. With a commitment to ethical business practices and effective governance, Sodali & Co plays a significant role in enhancing corporate strategies and stakeholder engagement in an increasingly complex business landscape.


15. Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP and Affiliates

  • Website: skadden.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 76%, United Kingdom (UK) 11%, Hong Kong S.A.R 4%, Other 10%
  • Founded year: 1948
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • LinkedIn: skadden-arps-slate-meagher-flom-llp-affiliates

Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP and Affiliates is a prominent law firm based in New York, founded in 1948. With a workforce of approximately 4,615 employees, the firm offers a wide array of legal services, particularly in mergers and acquisitions, corporate governance, and litigation. Skadden serves clients across various industries, providing expert legal advice to help them navigate complex legal challenges. The firm is recognized for its commitment to excellence and has a global presence, with offices in key financial centers around the world. Skadden's involvement in corporate governance includes advising boards on regulatory compliance, risk management, and best practices, making them a significant player in this advisory space.


16. Servicios Corporativos SerCor S.A.


Servicios Corporativos SerCor S.A., founded in 2000 and based in Santiago, Chile, is a corporate advisory firm that offers a variety of services aimed at supporting corporate boards and upper management. The company operates primarily within Chile, providing expertise in economic studies, strategic planning, compliance support, and governance enhancement. Their services extend to areas such as internal auditing, risk management, and corporate communications, which are crucial for effective governance. SerCor is part of the Angelini Group, which adds a layer of credibility and resources to their operations. They are committed to high standards of governance, as reflected in their adherence to OECD principles and the establishment of a Code of Ethics. This positions them as a significant player in the corporate governance advisory space, particularly for companies navigating complex regulatory frameworks.


17. Semler Brossy


Semler Brossy is a consulting firm based in Los Angeles, California, founded in 2001. With a team of approximately 108 employees, the firm specializes in executive compensation and governance consulting. They provide tailored advisory services to corporate boards and management teams, focusing on developing effective compensation strategies, enhancing board stewardship, and managing talent. Semler Brossy serves a wide range of clients, from large global corporations to smaller private firms, helping them align compensation with performance and improve governance practices. Their insights cover key themes such as ESG and human capital management, executive and director pay design, and shareholder voting. The firm is also affiliated with Hugessen Consulting in Canada and Ellason LLP in the UK, allowing them to offer cross-border insights and expertise in governance and compensation solutions.


18. Georgeson

  • Website: georgeson.com
  • Ownership type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 24%, United Kingdom (UK) 23%, Australia 14%, Other 39%
  • Latest funding: $115.0M, December 2003
  • Founded year: 1935
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: georgeson-global

Georgeson, founded in 1935 and based in New York, is a consulting firm that specializes in corporate governance and unclaimed property services. With a workforce of around 235 employees, the firm assists businesses in navigating complex regulatory environments, particularly in relation to shareholder engagement and compliance with unclaimed property laws. Their corporate governance services include proxy solicitation, strategic advice for corporate actions, and support for shareholder meetings. Georgeson aims to enhance shareholder relations and simplify the regulatory processes that companies face. They have a global presence, with significant operations in the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, and several European countries. Their expertise in corporate governance is complemented by their focus on helping organizations achieve their environmental, social, and governance (ESG) objectives.


19. Laurel Hill Advisory Group

  • Website: laurelhill.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Jericho, New York, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: Canada 66%, United States (USA) 34%
  • Founded year: 2007
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: laurel-hill-advisory-group

Laurel Hill Advisory Group, founded in 2007 and based in Jericho, New York, is a consulting firm that specializes in corporate communications and advisory services. With a team of around 58 employees, they provide a range of services including proxy solicitation, mergers and acquisitions, and corporate actions. Their expertise is particularly beneficial for public and private companies, SPACs, and banks, helping clients effectively navigate shareholder engagement and governance challenges. Laurel Hill is recognized for its independent approach, which allows them to focus solely on their clients' interests. They have a notable track record in managing complex and contentious transactions, and their annual Trends in Corporate Governance report is a significant contribution to understanding the evolving corporate governance landscape in Canada. Their commitment to integrity and client-focused solutions has earned them a reputation for delivering results in high-stakes situations.


20. KPMG Finland

  • Website: kpmg.fi
  • Ownership type: Family Owned
  • Headquarters: Helsinki, Uusimaa, Finland
  • Employee distribution: Finland 100%
  • Founded year: 1994
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • LinkedIn: kpmg-finland

KPMG Finland, officially known as KPMG Oy Ab, is a professional services firm based in Helsinki, Finland. Founded in 1994, the company employs over 1,400 professionals who provide a wide array of services including audit, tax, legal, and advisory. KPMG Finland is part of the global KPMG network, which is recognized for its commitment to quality and integrity in professional services. The firm plays a significant role in the Finnish market, assisting clients from various sectors in managing risks, enhancing performance, and navigating complex regulatory landscapes. Their advisory services focus on corporate governance, helping organizations establish robust governance frameworks and ensuring compliance with local and international regulations. KPMG Finland also emphasizes the importance of transparency and accountability in corporate practices, making them a valuable partner for businesses looking to strengthen their governance structures.


21. Baker Tilly Germany

  • Website: bakertilly.de
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Beijing, Beijing, China
  • Employee distribution: Germany 100%
  • Founded year: 1979
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • LinkedIn: bakertilly

Baker Tilly Germany is a consulting firm established in 1979, operating primarily in Germany with a workforce of around 845 employees. The firm specializes in a wide array of professional services, including auditing, legal advice, tax consulting, and business consulting. They cater to businesses and organizations seeking expert guidance in navigating complex regulatory and financial landscapes. Baker Tilly's services are particularly relevant in the areas of governance, risk, and compliance, where they assist clients in adhering to regulatory requirements and improving their corporate governance practices. Their commitment to sustainability and compliance with evolving regulations, such as the EU's anti-tax avoidance directives, highlights their proactive approach in the corporate governance advisory sector. With a strong emphasis on inter-disciplinary collaboration, Baker Tilly Germany leverages its expertise across various industries to provide tailored solutions for its clients.



Corporate Governance Advisory Insights: Key Companies


CompanyHeadquarterSizeFoundedOwnership
Glass, Lewis & Co.San Francisco, California, United States (USA)201-5002003Private Equity
Innisfree M&A IncorporatedNew York, New York, United States (USA)51-2001997Private
Kingsdale AdvisorsToronto, Ontario, Canada51-2002003Corporate
ISS Corporate Solutions (ICS)Rockville, Maryland, United States (USA)51-2001997Private
Brunswick GroupLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)1001-50001987Private Equity
Alliance AdvisorsBloomfield, New Jersey, United States (USA)51-2002005Private
Okapi PartnersNew York, New York, United States (USA)11-502008Private
PIRC LimitedLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)11-501986Private
Institutional Investor Advisory Services (IiAS)Mumbai, Maharashtra, India11-502010Private
SquareWell PartnersLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)11-502018Private
Ownership MattersMelbourne, Victoria, Australia1-102011Private
MacKenzie Partners, Inc.New York, New York, United States (USA)11-501990Private
ProxinvestParis, Île-De-France, France1-101995Corporate
Sodali & CoNew York, New York, United States (USA)501-10002006Private
Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP and AffiliatesNew York, New York, United States (USA)1001-50001948Private
Servicios Corporativos SerCor S.A.Santiago, Santiago, Chile11-502000Private
Semler BrossyLos Angeles, California, United States (USA)51-2002001Private
GeorgesonNew York, New York, United States (USA)51-2001935Corporate
Laurel Hill Advisory GroupJericho, New York, United States (USA)11-502007Private
KPMG FinlandHelsinki, Uusimaa, Finland1001-50001994Family Owned
Baker Tilly GermanyBeijing, Beijing, China1001-50001979Private


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