Becoming a non-executive director is an incredibly competitive process, so correctly demonstrating your credentials takes time and effort to ensure that you prove yourself to be deserving of the appointment.
In this article, you will learn how to become a non-executive director, walking you through the entire process and exploring how you can best prepare yourself for the role. We also share how our experts at Awards Intelligence can help you realise your ambitions.
What is a non-executive director?
According to the Institute of Directors, the role of a non-executive director (NED) is complex, as the individual will need to provide oversight and constructively challenge the management of the organisation they are appointed to.
The role involves duties and responsibilities such as performance evaluation, risk management, strategic planning and participation in committee meetings.
The role also requires specific knowledge and skills to support the company in remaining accountable and compliant. These include confidence, diligence, creativity, analytical thinking, industry foresight and the ability to be objective. These skills are vital when it comes to being a non-executive director as they represent one’s ability to evaluate goals, understand workplace environments and conjure creative solutions to support the future of an organisation.
Maintaining independent thought is another crucial aspect of the role, ensuring that the evaluation of a company’s executive directors can be impartially fulfilled.
The day-to-day role of a non-executive director places a focus on matters raised in board meetings, whilst also providing an independent view of the company.
The role involves duties and responsibilities such as performance evaluation, risk management, strategic planning and participation in committee meetings.
The importance of NEDs
Non-executive directors are vital for any organisation for several reasons.
Their impartial perspective helps maintain balance in an organisation, protecting the interests of stakeholders. With their expertise and broad networks, they enrich decision-making within a company, helping to identify risks and explore new opportunities within an industry.
They also play a critical role in ensuring a company remains transparent about its operations, which are conducted through audits, and act as a bridge between stakeholders and management.
How to become a non-executive director
Below, we provide a step-by-step guide for how to become a non-executive director:
1) Preparing for the role
It helps during this process to be specific about the organisation you’d like to work with, as there are different levels of involvement depending on the size of the company. Smaller organisations tend to involve their non-executive directors more in their operations, for example.
Typically, if you’re looking for a non-executive director position, you will have previous experience in executive roles, equipping you with the necessary knowledge of business finances and legal issues that will enable you to provide valuable oversight in the role.
Even if you feel prepared for the role, it might still be worth enrolling in a personal development programme to uplift your professional growth and ensure you have a better chance of becoming a non-executive director.
2) Your CV
Ensure that your CV is fully up to date and appropriately showcases your professional experience and expertise.
The role of a non-executive director places great importance on your personality and talent, not just your professional abilities and accomplishments, therefore your CV should accurately capture these qualities.
Ultimately, you’re aiming to demonstrate your ability to be mentally independent and a willingness to make judgements, as recommended by Indeed.
3) Seeking the right experience
As we’ve mentioned, becoming a non-executive director is incredibly competitive. Setting yourself apart from your competition is essential for distinguishing yourself as the perfect candidate.
There are a few preparatory roles you can consider entering to give you an advantage. For example, accepting this position at a non-profit organisation or charity is a great way to gain valuable experience, whilst also proving your commitment to such a role.
Additionally, you can try to find a mentor who currently works on a board of directors. Seeking their advice can provide beneficial insights into how the board functions and exclusive access to their professional network. They might even give you a personal recommendation for a future role.
4) The interview
Distinguishing yourself as the ideal candidate for a non-executive director role, instead of an executive position, is essential during this process.
Indeed recommends that, when interviewing for this role at a large enterprise, you should emphasise your “independence and ability to challenge things positively”. However, when interviewing for a smaller business, they might be looking for a decision-making partner, and therefore you should bring more attention to your empathy and experience.
Non-executive directorships and Awards Intelligence
The process of becoming a non-executive director can be challenging, but Awards Intelligence is here to support you every step of the way.
We expertly craft your application to ensure it is focused, carefully positioned and polished, and that you are well prepared in advance of your interview before the Board. All you need to do is give us the details of the position you are interested in; we will take care of all the heavy lifting.
Contact us today to find out more about our services and how our experts can support you in becoming a non-executive director.