The new regulatory regime under Dodd-Frank (e.g. Say on Pay) has forced IR professionals to have an understanding of governance matters in order to communicate with investors and gain support for say on pay votes, director elections, and other issues on the proxy ballot. A proactive approach by the IRO is the best way for shareholders to understand the company issues. Today's corporate governance environment calls for much more than just a passing vote, as activists will target companies that fail to gain significant support from shareholders.