We had the pleasure of supporting a dynamic and engaging event with PER, featuring a diverse group of over 40 women and an inspiring panel who shared their personal journeys into Non-Executive Director (NED) and Chair roles. The panelists, with varied backgrounds, offered practical advice and insights that resonated deeply with the attendees.
Key themes from the discussion included:
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How to secure your first NED or Chair role: The panel delved into the strategies and steps necessary to land that crucial first position.
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Board types explained: The differences between PLC, Private Equity, and Private Company Boards were unpacked, offering clarity on the distinct dynamics within each.
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Crafting your Board profile CV: Translating executive experience into a compelling Board profile was a focal point, with expert advice on how to position your CV for these roles.
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The importance of mentorship: The power of mentoring in navigating the boardroom landscape was highlighted as essential to success.
A special mention to Cate, who shared valuable insights on how CEOs and investors approach the attributes they look for in Chairs and NEDs. She emphasised that the pool of Chairs is constantly evolving to meet the growing demand, and that the interview process should be a two-way street. Given the long-term commitment of these roles, a strong cultural match is critical.
It was an insightful session that left everyone with actionable takeaways and new perspectives on stepping into a board-level role. We look forward to building on these discussions in future events.
