A Non-Executive Director (NED) or Board role is one of the most coveted career moves for senior professionals looking to broaden their impact, contribute to strategic decision-making, and build a rewarding portfolio career.
Unlike executive directors, NEDs are not involved in the daily management of a company. Instead, they offer independent oversight, strategic guidance, and critical thinking that shapes the future of the organization.
But how exactly do you find an NED role, especially if you’re just getting started?
Here’s a comprehensive guide to navigating the path toward your first (or next) board seat.
Understand the Role: What Does a Non-Executive Director Actually Do?
Before diving into applications, it’s important to understand what the role entails. NEDs are appointed to bring an objective view to the boardroom. They are expected to challenge the executive team, monitor company performance, and ensure governance standards are upheld.
They may not be involved in day-to-day operations, but they carry significant legal and fiduciary responsibilities. NEDs also often contribute specialised expertise, whether that’s in finance, law, technology, ESG, or risk management.
In recent years, the scope of the NED has evolved. Boards are no longer composed solely of retired CEOs and finance experts. Today, they seek directors with diverse perspectives, sector-specific knowledge, and experience in areas like digital transformation, cyber security, and sustainability.
Step 1: Define Your Board Value Proposition
To be considered for a board role, you must clearly articulate what you bring to the table. This is your Board Value Proposition, a concise explanation of your unique experience, skills, and insights that are relevant at the board level.
Ask yourself:
- What governance or oversight experience do I have?
- Have I led or advised on major strategic decisions?
- Do I have expertise in areas boards care about (e.g., risk, finance, digital, ESG)?
- What industries or sectors do I bring insight into?
If you’re coming from a C-suite role or senior leadership, this transition may be natural. If not, don’t worry, many professionals build up to it by serving on nonprofit, school, or startup boards.
Step 2: Tailor Your CV for NED Positions
A common mistake is using the same CV you’d use for an executive job. NED roles require a different type of presentation.
Your CV should:
- Focus on governance, strategic oversight, and boardroom experience (rather than operational execution).
- Be concise, ideally 2 pages max.
- Emphasise any experience in decision-making bodies: committees, advisory boards, councils, etc.
- Highlight impact and judgment rather than management.
It’s also wise to develop a short NED bio, summarising your board experience and expertise in a single paragraph. This is especially useful when networking or applying via board-specific platforms.
Step 3: Gain Board Experience Wherever You Can
If you’re looking for your first NED role, don’t aim for the biggest companies straight away. Start by gaining governance experience less formal or unpaid settings. This helps you develop your understanding of board responsibilities and gives you credibility when pursuing commercial NED roles. Around 70% of NEDs gain board habilitation through prior non-profit or advisory roles before corporate boards.(The New Yorker)
You can look at:
- Charities and nonprofits
- School boards or local councils
- Startups and scale-ups
- Professional associations
- University advisory boards
These roles still carry real governance responsibilities and can serve as valuable training grounds.
Step 4: Use Your Network Strategically
The majority of NED roles, particularly those at smaller private companies or startups are not advertised publicly. They are filled through recommendations, referrals, or word of mouth.
This means you must activate your network. Let former colleagues, mentors, and industry contacts know that you’re looking for board opportunities. Attend events and panels where board members and investors are present. Join communities that regularly discuss board governance and leadership. When networking, don’t just ask for a board opportunity. Instead, explain what you’re looking for and why you’re a fit for governance roles. Make it easy for others to connect the dots.
Step 5: Leverage NED-Focused Platforms and Recruiters
While many roles come through networks, there are platforms that specialise in board placements. Joining these can help you stay visible and connected.
Here are some reputable ones:
- Nurole – Global platform connecting companies with board candidates.
- Women on Boards UK – Offers training, networking, and board listings.
- FT Non-Executive Directors’ Club – Run by the Financial Times with resources and role alerts.
- The Non-Executive Directors’ Association (NEDA) – Includes guidance, workshops, and job boards.
- BoardEx – Used by recruiters to identify and assess potential board members.
Focused search firms like Richmond Capital also work with boards for more senior or FTSE-level roles.
Step 6: Build Your Visibility and Credibility
Boards are often looking for leaders who have a public presence or are respected in their field. This doesn’t mean being famous, it means being visible.
You can increase your visibility by:
- Speaking at conferences or industry events
- Writing articles or posting insights on LinkedIn
- Participating in panels or webinars
- Contributing to whitepapers or research initiatives
- Judging awards in your field
You want to be seen as someone who understands the bigger picture, not just the operational details.
Step 7: Consider Board Training and Accreditation
While not always mandatory, having formal board education can significantly strengthen your credibility, especially if you’re transitioning from a purely executive background.
Popular programs include:
- Institute of Directors (IoD) – Certificate in Company Direction
- Financial Times Non-Executive Director Programme
- INSEAD International Directors Programme
- Harvard Business School – Executive Education on Corporate Governance
These not only give you tools and frameworks for governance, but also connect you with a peer network of aspiring and current board members.
Fact: According to Deloitte’s 2023 Board Practices Report, over 60% of boards say they value formal governance training in first-time NEDs.
Final Thoughts
Finding an NED role is not just about applying for a position, it’s about positioning yourself as a strategic leader, building board-level credibility, and making yourself visible to the right circles.
It takes time, consistency, and a shift in mindset from operational delivery to governance and oversight. But with the right approach, the path to the boardroom is absolutely achievable.
And once you’re there? You’ll be helping shape the future of businesses from the top down, offering the kind of influence few other roles can match.
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