Do characteristics of the board of directors and top executives have an effect on corporate performance among the financial sector? Evidence using stock

Abstract
Purpose
Consistent with the board of directors and top executive management’s role in ensuring and promoting investments for economic development, this paper aims to examine Omani executive management’s role in helping goals achievement in firms. This paper examines the relationships among the study variables, which are top executive management characteristics and corporate performance in the context of Omani listed firms, with the help of two control variables.

Design/methodology/approach
The study focused on a unique context, a developing nation, Oman and its exchange market for the past seven years (2011-2017). In addition, the data were collected from annual report according to board of directors and top executive management variables, and the financial data were obtained from DataStream. The study used the panel data approach to test the relationships characteristics of board of directors, top executive management and corporate performance.

Findings
Based on the obtained results, showed positive and significant positive relationships between some characteristics of top executive management and corporate performance, and significant negative relationships between others and the same. Specifically, board size, non-executive directors, general experience and account experience were in the former category, while board meeting was in the latter category. Finally, size and professional certificate of top executive management did not have a significant relationship with corporate performance.

Research limitations/implications
This study, like previous studies has some limitations such as sample, country, variables and years; therefore, at the end of this study, many limitations and suggestions for future research studies are provided. Moreover, the study findings can be used by the market to assist managers to enhance corporate weaknesses.

Originality/value
The focus of the study was placed on the top executive management and corporate governance of Omani listed firms that has implications for practitioners particularly concerning the top executive management role. Added to this, the study conducted an investigation of the integration between board of directors and top executive management, with corporate governance among Omani listed firms. The study also provided information that has implications to academics when it comes to board of directors and top executive management strategies to encourage consideration of the relationship to develop best practices.