Becoming A Non Executive Director

Non Executive Director

What is a NonExecutive Director (NED)?

In short, a board director who is not part of the executive. Or in other words, a director who does not also have a job within the organisation. NED’s are typically recruited to bring a broader perspective or fresh ideas to the Board.

Institute Of Directors. A professional body for business leaders that has been representing individual directors from all sectors for the last 100 years, from CEOs of private and public sector organisations to entrepreneurs of start-up companies. Provides information on NED’s.

Head Hunters: Some of the top Head-hunters search for NEDs - a lot of networking can be required to get a short-list for NED roles. A specialist head-hunter for non-execs is Hanson Green (tend to like candidates who have already held a NED position).

Public Sector: The public sector NED’s tend to be advertised in the FT/Times. The Government often advertises on: Public Appointments.

Professional Bodies/Business Schools; Being a member of a professional body can provide access to useful networking opportunities for NEDs. This can be a long journey, often short-cut by influential senior contacts. A number of business schools, (e.g. Cass and Cranfield) run courses on becoming a NED, which cover governance and compliance and also access to alumni which again can open up some useful links.

Websites

Appointments Commission: Chair and non-executive director opportunities in health and public services.

Non Execs is an independent site managed by the Financial Times for established and aspiring non-executive directors. May charge a fee.

NED Exchange helps individuals find NED positions. May charge a fee.

Direct Gov. sometimes also carries details of public sector NED roles. Look in the “Government, Citizens and Rights” section.

Other Options

Finally, watch the appointment sections of the broadsheets and their Sunday equivalents. Keep an eye too on the website of your local county council who may well advertise these positions there first.

See this list of helpful books and guides at Amazon: Non-Executive Director Guides At Amazon

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