Private Company Director’s Directors to Watch 2026 highlights 29 significant and diverse directors who have contributed to and will continue to expand ongoing dialogue on board best practices and corporate governance excellence.
Dietz Kellmann
TriSummit Utilities, GRT, Doyon Utilities
Dietz Kellmann is an experienced independent director and the principal of DCLK Corporate Consulting. His background in board governance was developed working as the chief operating officer and chief development officer at the Corix Group of Companies, where he spearheaded strategic growth and served on subsidiary boards. This experience has proven invaluable in his roles as an independent director and as a member or chair of committees, including human resources, audit, and health, safety and environment. Kellmann serves on the boards of three private companies, TriSummit Utilities, a rapidly growing Canadian-based utility; Doyon Utilities, a U.S. LLC supporting Alaska military installation utilities; and GRT, an innovative company advancing the circular economy through soil remediation and reuse.
Kellman is a member of Canada’s Institute of Corporate Directors.
Independence builds trust. “Private company boards often lack the structural safeguards of public companies and may be dominated by founders or controlling shareholders. This can result in reduced director accountability and a lack of director objectivity, and leads to mistrust between management and ownership. Independent directors are essential in bridging these gaps, fostering trust and promoting long-term strategic thinking. In an era marked by rapid change, dynamic risks, and geopolitical and economic uncertainty, stronger governance processes are vital. Private companies that implement public board practices, including appointing and actively engaging independent directors, position themselves for greater success and resilience in an evolving business landscape.”