Making an Impact Beyond Your Day Job: A Journey into a Voluntary Board Role
At Be Executive, part of the Be Recruitment Group, we are passionate about connecting talented leaders with organisations where they can make a lasting impact. Recently, we had the pleasure of speaking with Simon, who successfully transitioned from the private sector into a voluntary Non-Executive Director (NED) role. His insights provide valuable guidance for professionals considering this journey that we wanted to share with our network.
Meet Simon
Simon has an impressive career spanning over 15 years in corporate strategy and finance, with expertise in risk management, governance, and organisational growth. Recently, he took on a voluntary NED position with a not-for-profit (NFP) focused on improving mental health.
We asked Simon to share his experiences, lessons learned, and advice for others who may be considering a similar path.
The Motivation: Why Pursue a Voluntary Board Role?
“For me, the decision to step into a board role was driven by a desire to give back to the community and use my professional skills to support a cause I’m passionate about,” says Simon. “I had been thinking about how I could use my expertise in finance and governance to make a difference beyond my day-to-day role, and joining a board seemed like the perfect way to do that.”
What Made It Happen: Key Steps Along the Way
When asked about the steps that led to securing the board position, Simon highlighted a few critical actions that paved the way:
Identifying the Right Fit:
“I took the time to research organisations whose missions aligned with my values and interests. I knew I wanted to work with an organisation where I could genuinely contribute and add value.”
Leveraging Networks:
“I reached out to people in my professional network who had board experience and asked for their advice. They provided insights into what boards look for and how to position myself effectively.”
Upskilling and Preparation:
“I completed governance training through the Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD), which gave me a solid understanding of board governance, risk management, and fiduciary duties. This was essential for building my confidence going into the role.”
Lessons Learned: What Stood Out Most?
When reflecting on his experience, Simon highlighted several key lessons:
Understand Your Role as a NED:
“Being on a board is very different from being in an operational role. It’s about providing oversight and strategic guidance rather than managing day-to-day tasks. Learning how to step back and see the bigger picture was a skill I had to develop.”
The Importance of Relationship Building:
“I quickly realised that success as a board member comes down to building strong relationships—with fellow board members, the CEO, and key stakeholders. Trust and collaboration are essential.”
Continuous Learning:
“Even with years of experience, I found that board roles require ongoing learning. Whether it’s staying updated on governance regulations or understanding sector trends, being curious and adaptable is key.”
What Was Most Rewarding?
“The most rewarding part has been seeing the impact that the organisation is making and knowing that I’m contributing to that success,” says Simon. “It’s incredibly fulfilling to be part of a group of passionate leaders who are all committed to driving positive change.”
Challenges Along the Way
While the journey was rewarding, Simon admits there were challenges:
Balancing Commitments:
“Juggling my full-time role and board responsibilities was definitely a challenge at first. I had to learn how to prioritise and manage my time effectively to ensure that I was adding value to both.”
Shifting from Operational to Strategic Thinking:
“As someone who’s used to being hands-on, shifting to a strategic governance mindset took some adjustment. It’s about asking the right questions rather than providing all the answers.”
Advice for Professionals Considering a Voluntary Board Role
Simon had some valuable advice for anyone considering a transition into a voluntary board position, whether from the private sector or the NFP sector:
Know Your Why:
“Understand your motivation for joining a board. Are you looking to contribute to a cause, build your governance experience, or expand your professional network? Being clear on your purpose will guide your decisions.”
Be Prepared to Learn:
“Even if you have extensive leadership experience, board governance is different. Take the time to learn about governance frameworks, compliance, and risk management to prepare yourself effectively.”
Build Relationships Early:
“Engage with other board members and key stakeholders early on. Strong relationships are the foundation of an effective board and will make your transition smoother.”
Consider Governance Training:
“If you’re serious about taking on a board role, formal governance training (like the AICD course) can provide a solid foundation and build your confidence.”
Making It Happen: How Be Executive Can Support Your Journey
If you’re considering stepping into a voluntary board role, Be Executive can guide you through the process. Through our pro bono board recruitment services, led by our founding directors Zena Clark and Jenny Rosser, we connect capable and passionate leaders with organisations that align with their values.
Our Corporate and Social Responsibility (CSR) commitment ensures that NFPs can access high-calibre leadership even when resources are limited. We provide tailored support to ensure both the organisation and the new board member experience a seamless and rewarding journey.
Interested in Exploring a Board Role?
If you’re interested in joining a voluntary board or want to learn more about how we can support your transition into a Non-Executive Director role, we’d love to hear from you.
Contact us today at:
[email protected]
To protect the individual’s privacy, we have changed the name of the person interviewed in this article to “Simon.” All experiences and insights shared remain true to the individual’s journey.
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