Charles River Associates Appoints New Lead Independent Director

Christine Detrick to succeed William Concannon after his 26 years of service

Apr. 2, 2026 at 8:06pm

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A minimalist studio still life photograph featuring a stack of business documents, a pen, and a brass paperweight arranged on a clean white background, conveying the serious, analytical nature of CRA's consulting work.The transition of leadership on CRA's Board signals a new chapter of independent oversight and strategic guidance for the global consulting firm.Boston Today

Charles River Associates (CRA), a global consulting firm, announced that current director Christine Detrick will assume the role of independent Lead Director of the Board of Directors following the planned retirement of current independent Lead Director William Concannon. Concannon has served on CRA's Board since 2000 and as its Lead Director since 2020, and will retire at the company's 2026 Annual Meeting of Shareholders.

Why it matters

The appointment of a new Lead Independent Director is an important governance move for a public company like CRA, as the Lead Director plays a key role in overseeing the Board's activities and providing independent leadership. Detrick's extensive governance experience will be valuable as she takes on this role.

The details

Concannon informed the Board of his decision to retire in order to spend more time with family and other activities. Detrick has been a member of CRA's Board since 2020 and currently serves as Chairperson of the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee. Her appointment as Lead Director is subject to her re-election to the Board at the 2026 Annual Meeting of Shareholders.

  • William Concannon will retire at CRA's 2026 Annual Meeting of Shareholders, scheduled for July 16, 2026.
  • Christine Detrick's appointment as Lead Independent Director will take effect following Concannon's retirement.

The players

Charles River Associates (CRA)

A leading global consulting firm specializing in economic, financial, and management consulting services.

William Concannon

The current independent Lead Director of CRA's Board of Directors, who has served on the Board since 2000 and as Lead Director since 2020.

Christine Detrick

A current director of CRA's Board who will assume the role of independent Lead Director following Concannon's retirement.

Paul Maleh

The Chairman of the Board, Chief Executive Officer and President of CRA.

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What they’re saying

“We would like to thank Bill for his leadership, sound judgment, and steadfast commitment to CRA's success as Lead Director over the past six years, and as a member of the Board for the past 26 years.”

— Paul Maleh, Chairman of the Board, Chief Executive Officer and President of CRA

“Bill has provided a steady hand through the various stages of our growth and prosperity, and for that we are deeply grateful. We are also pleased that Christine, with her extensive governance experience, has agreed to serve as our next independent Lead Director.”

— Paul Maleh, Chairman of the Board, Chief Executive Officer and President of CRA

What’s next

CRA's shareholders will vote on the re-election of Christine Detrick to the Board at the company's 2026 Annual Meeting, which will determine whether she assumes the role of Lead Independent Director.

The takeaway

The transition of CRA's Lead Independent Director role from the long-serving William Concannon to the experienced Christine Detrick represents an important governance change for the company as it continues to grow and navigate industry challenges. Detrick's appointment underscores CRA's commitment to strong independent oversight of the Board.