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The Boardroom Path
Trailer
Bonus
Episode 1
Season 1
The Certified NED: Why Your Board Career Should Start with Certification
Ever wondered what it takes to land your first Non-Executive Director role and truly succeed in the boardroom?
In this insightful episode of The Boardroom Path, Graham Durgan, founder of the Non-Executive Directors Association (NEDA), joins host Ralph Grayson to demystify the journey into board-level roles. From exploring essential skills and qualifications to discussing why diversity and inclusion are critical for board effectiveness, Graham shares his extensive experience to guide aspiring NEDs.
This conversation sheds light on practical strategies, common pitfalls, and actionable insights for anyone aiming to transition effectively from executive positions to impactful NED roles.
Graham Durgan: Graham is the founder of the Non-Executive Directors Association (NEDA), a professional body dedicated to preparing and supporting non-executive directors through structured learning, certification, and thought leadership. With a unique career that began in accountancy at PwC and ventured into entrepreneurship—ranging from a ski-holiday business to educational publishing—Graham combines entrepreneurial spirit with decades of experience in governance, training, and mentorship. His work with NEDA focuses on promoting rigorous standards and broadening boardroom diversity, making him a respected authority on the skills and mindsets required to excel as a non-executive director.
Ralph Grayson: Ralph Grayson is a Partner in the Board Practice at Sainty Hird & Partners, bringing extensive experience in board-level recruitment, assessment, and advisory services. With a deep understanding of the corporate governance landscape, Ralph specialises in guiding senior executives as they transition into impactful boardroom careers. His thoughtful approach, combined with a passion for developing effective leaders, enables him to facilitate insightful conversations that equip aspiring and newly appointed Non-Executive Directors with the tools they need to succeed. Through The Boardroom Path, Ralph leverages his extensive professional network and expertise to empower listeners on their journey into the boardroom.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
In this insightful episode of The Boardroom Path, Graham Durgan, founder of the Non-Executive Directors Association (NEDA), joins host Ralph Grayson to demystify the journey into board-level roles. From exploring essential skills and qualifications to discussing why diversity and inclusion are critical for board effectiveness, Graham shares his extensive experience to guide aspiring NEDs.
This conversation sheds light on practical strategies, common pitfalls, and actionable insights for anyone aiming to transition effectively from executive positions to impactful NED roles.
Graham Durgan: Graham is the founder of the Non-Executive Directors Association (NEDA), a professional body dedicated to preparing and supporting non-executive directors through structured learning, certification, and thought leadership. With a unique career that began in accountancy at PwC and ventured into entrepreneurship—ranging from a ski-holiday business to educational publishing—Graham combines entrepreneurial spirit with decades of experience in governance, training, and mentorship. His work with NEDA focuses on promoting rigorous standards and broadening boardroom diversity, making him a respected authority on the skills and mindsets required to excel as a non-executive director.
Ralph Grayson: Ralph Grayson is a Partner in the Board Practice at Sainty Hird & Partners, bringing extensive experience in board-level recruitment, assessment, and advisory services. With a deep understanding of the corporate governance landscape, Ralph specialises in guiding senior executives as they transition into impactful boardroom careers. His thoughtful approach, combined with a passion for developing effective leaders, enables him to facilitate insightful conversations that equip aspiring and newly appointed Non-Executive Directors with the tools they need to succeed. Through The Boardroom Path, Ralph leverages his extensive professional network and expertise to empower listeners on their journey into the boardroom.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
- The essential skills and mindsets needed to excel as a non-executive director.
- Why boardroom diversity and inclusion drive better decision-making and business outcomes.
- Practical steps aspiring NEDs can take to secure their first board position.
- The key differences between executive and non-executive roles, and how to manage the transition effectively.
- Why formal training and certification significantly improve your readiness for board roles.
Action Points:
- Clarify Your Value Proposition: Clearly define what unique value you can bring to a board. Reflect on your skills, experiences, and insights, and prepare specific examples that demonstrate how you can address existing skill gaps on a particular board. Positioning yourself as a problem-solver rather than merely a candidate improves your chances of success.
- Invest in Certification: Consider formal certification, such as the Non-Executive Directors Association programme, to validate your boardroom knowledge. Certification not only builds self-confidence but also signals your preparedness to future chairs and nomination committees. This demonstrates your commitment to continuous professional development and governance best practices.
- Cultivate Boardroom Mindset: Transition your mindset from operational leadership to strategic oversight. Practise active listening, offering advice rather than directives, and embrace your role as a challenger rather than a manager. Developing a more reflective and advisory approach positions you effectively for board-level influence.
- Understand Board Culture: Research thoroughly the culture, style, and dynamics of boards you wish to join. Evaluate if the board aligns with your personal values, communication style, and working habits, as cultural fit significantly impacts your ability to contribute effectively. Engaging with current or past board members can provide critical insights into whether you will thrive in that environment.
- Prepare Thoroughly for Your First Role: Approach securing your first board seat methodically, ensuring your CV and application emphasise strategic accomplishments and advisory experiences rather than executive operational duties. Network proactively through industry contacts, recruitment firms, and professional associations like NEDA. Be patient yet persistent, as securing the first board role often requires substantial groundwork and strategic networking.
The Boardroom Path is the essential podcast for aspiring and newly appointed Non-Executive Directors (NEDs) navigating the journey from executive leadership to the boardroom. Hosted by Ralph Grayson, partner at Sainty Hird & Partners, each episode offers insightful conversations with industry leaders, seasoned board directors, and governance experts. Our guests share practical strategies, valuable perspectives, and actionable advice on how to effectively transition into board roles, maximise your impact, and build a rewarding NED career.
Subscribe now, and take your first confident step along The Boardroom Path.
Learn more about Sainty Hird & Partners at saintyhird.com
Learn more about Sainty Hird & Partners at saintyhird.com
Chapters
- The Certified NED: Why Your Board Career Should Start with Certification
- Meet Graham Durgan: Entrepreneur and NED Expert
- Graham's Career Journey and Early Ventures
- The Birth of the Non-Executive Directors Association
- The Importance of Diversity and Inclusion in Boards
- Navigating DEI and ESG in the Boardroom
- Preparing for Your First NED Role
- Key Skills for Board Members: Strategy, Risk, People, Performance
- The Role of Non-Executive Directors: Oversight and Challenge
- Public vs. Private Boards: Adding Value
- The Evolving Search Industry and Board Recruitment
- Conclusion and Practical Steps to the Boardroom