At Be Executive, part of the Be Recruitment Group, we work closely with organisations to connect talented individuals with board roles that align with their skills and passions. Securing a board position is about more than just professional expertise—it’s about demonstrating the right mindset, commitment, and values that align with the organisation’s goals.
If you’re considering a Non-Executive Director (NED) role or looking to enhance your impact on a board, here are some key qualities that Chairs look for in successful candidates:
Strategic Thinking and Governance Expertise
Why It Matters:
Board members play a pivotal role in providing strategic oversight and ensuring that the organisation remains aligned with its long-term goals. Candidates who demonstrate a deep understanding of corporate governance, risk management, and compliance bring immense value to the boardroom.
What Chairs Look For:
Experience in governance, risk, and compliance
Ability to analyse complex issues and identify strategic opportunities
Understanding of the organisation’s mission and alignment with its goals
Diverse Skill Set and Sector Knowledge
Why It Matters:
A high-performing board benefits from diversity of skills, backgrounds, and perspectives. Having board members with complementary expertise enhances decision-making and enables the board to tackle a wide range of challenges effectively.
What Chairs Look For:
Expertise in areas such as finance, law, marketing, technology, or fundraising
Industry-specific knowledge that adds value to the organisation’s strategy
A track record of innovative thinking and problem-solving
Strong Interpersonal and Relationship-Building Skills
Why It Matters:
Boards are built on collaboration, respect, and trust. A successful board member engages in constructive discussions, contributes meaningfully to board deliberations, and fosters strong relationships with fellow directors and key stakeholders.
What Chairs Look For:
Ability to engage in respectful, constructive debate
Strong emotional intelligence (EQ) to navigate complex dynamics
A team-oriented approach that encourages collaboration and inclusivity
Commitment to the Organisation’s Mission and Values
Why It Matters:
A candidate who is aligned with the organisation’s mission, vision, and values is more likely to make meaningful contributions and advocate for the organisation’s success.
What Chairs Look For:
Genuine passion for the organisation’s goals and impact
Willingness to act as an ambassador for the organisation
Commitment to ethical practices and sound decision-making
Time, Energy, and Dedication to the Role
Why It Matters:
Board roles require time, commitment, and active participation. Candidates who are prepared to dedicate themselves fully to the role—attending meetings, engaging in committees, and staying informed—are highly valued by Chairs.
What Chairs Look For:
Availability to attend regular board and committee meetings
Willingness to invest time in understanding the organisation’s challenges
Proactive engagement in board activities and continuous learning
Curiosity and Willingness to Learn
Many Chairs also value candidates with intellectual curiosity and adaptability. The best board members are constantly learning, staying informed about industry trends, and embracing emerging governance practices.
Master the Art of Asking the Right Questions
Why It’s Important:
A strong NED doesn’t just offer advice—they ask insightful, probing questions that challenge assumptions, uncover risks, and drive better decision-making.
Advice:
Focus on “what if” scenarios to encourage diverse thinking.
Ask open-ended questions that spark discussion and creativity.
Challenge assumptions respectfully to promote critical thinking.
Build Strong Relationships with Fellow Board Members
Why It’s Important:
Board dynamics can make or break an organisation. Strong relationships built on trust and mutual respect create a collaborative and high-functioning board.
Advice:
Prioritise relationship-building with the Chair, CEO, and other board members.
Invest time in understanding different perspectives and finding common ground.
Be approachable and encourage open dialogue, even outside of board meetings.
Stay Focused on Governance, Not Operations
Why It’s Important:
A NED’s role is to provide oversight and strategic guidance, not get involved in day-to-day operations. Crossing that line can blur boundaries and undermine management.
Advice:
Keep discussions at a strategic level, focusing on long-term goals and risks.
Respect management’s operational autonomy while ensuring accountability.
Regularly reflect on whether your contributions are adding value at the governance level.
Commit to Continuous Learning and Development
Why It’s Important:
The governance landscape is constantly evolving. Staying informed about changing regulations, governance trends, and sector-specific challenges ensures that NEDs remain effective.
Advice:
Enrol in governance training programs such as the AICD (Australian Institute of Company Directors) or other reputable governance courses.
Attend board development workshops and stay up-to-date with regulatory changes.
Seek mentorship or shadow experienced board members to refine your approach.
Understand Risk, Compliance, and Legal Obligations
Why It’s Important:
NEDs have a fiduciary responsibility to ensure the organisation operates legally and ethically. Understanding risk management, compliance, and legal obligations is critical to protecting the organisation and its stakeholders.
Advice:
Familiarise yourself with risk management frameworks and compliance protocols.
Review the organisation’s risk register & appetite and assess emerging threats.
Stay informed about relevant regulatory changes affecting the organisation.
Be Prepared for Crisis Management!
Why It’s Important:
Boards often play a key role in crisis management and ensuring business continuity during challenging times. A well-prepared NED can provide steady leadership during moments of uncertainty.
Advice:
Be familiar with the organisation’s crisis management plan.
Understand the board’s role in decision-making during a crisis.
Encourage regular scenario planning and risk assessments.
Advocate for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)
Why It’s Important:
A diverse board leads to better decision-making, improved performance, and stronger stakeholder engagement. Promoting diversity fosters innovation and ensures that the organisation reflects the communities it serves.
Advice:
Advocate for diverse perspectives and experiences at the board level.
Encourage inclusive practices in recruitment and governance.
Recognise and address unconscious bias to ensure equitable participation.
Know When to Step Aside
Why It’s Important:
A great NED knows when it’s time to step aside and create space for fresh perspectives. Overstaying can limit the board’s ability to adapt to new challenges.
Advice:
Regularly assess your contribution and value to the board.
Be open to succession planning and mentor emerging leaders.
Leave on a high note, ensuring a smooth transition for the next leader.
Embrace Your Role as an Ambassador
Why It’s Important:
Board members serve as ambassadors for the organisation, advocating for its mission, promoting its impact, and attracting potential partners, donors, and supporters.
Advice:
Be ready to champion the organisation at networking events and in professional circles.
Share success stories and achievements to elevate the organisation’s profile.
Leverage your professional network to open doors for the organisation.
Final Thoughts for Aspiring NEDs
Board service can be an incredibly rewarding and impactful experience—but it’s also a role that requires dedication, adaptability, and a deep understanding of governance principles. Whether you’re transitioning from the private sector or the NFP sector, focusing on these key tips will help you thrive in your NED journey.
Thinking About Joining a Board?
If you’re ready to explore a voluntary board role or are seeking guidance on how to transition into a Non-Executive Director (NED) position, Be Executive can help. We offer pro bono board recruitment services to connect capable leaders with NFP organisations that align with their values.
Contact us today at:
[email protected]
#Leadership #BoardRecruitment #CSR #NED #Governance #ProBono #BeExecutive #CommunityImpact #CareerGrowth
