What does it take to truly thrive as a non-executive director in today’s complex boardroom landscape?

In this episode of The Boardroom Path, host Ralph Grayson is joined by board expert Patrick Dunne OBE to unpack the practicalities of becoming a high-impact NED. Drawing from decades of leadership, governance advisory, and his acclaimed book Boards, Patrick shares how the "three Ps" — Purpose, People, and Process — provide the foundation for effective governance. 

The discussion covers everything from mindset shifts and influencing skills to generational diversity and the role of Next Gen boards. Whether you’re an aspiring director, new to boardroom life, or looking to deepen your strategic impact, this conversation offers valuable, actionable insights grounded in real-world experience.

• (00:00) - Patrick Dunne on Next Gen Boards: Unlocking the Power of Five Generations

Patrick Dunne OBE: Chair of multiple charities and founder of Board Delta, Patrick is a leading authority on governance and board performance. He is the author of Boards, and has decades of experience advising boards across sectors and geographies.

Ralph Grayson: Ralph Grayson is a Partner in the Board Practice at Sainty Hird & Partners, bringing extensive experience in board-level recruitment, assessment, and advisory services. With a deep understanding of the corporate governance landscape, Ralph specialises in guiding senior executives as they transition into impactful boardroom careers. His thoughtful approach, combined with a passion for developing effective leaders, enables him to facilitate insightful conversations that equip aspiring and newly appointed Non-Executive Directors with the tools they need to succeed. Through The Boardroom Path, Ralph leverages his extensive professional network and expertise to empower listeners on their journey into the boardroom.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• What the "three Ps" framework means for modern boards
• How to make the mindset shift from executive to NED
• Why influence matters more than authority in boardrooms
• How generational diversity strengthens board decisions
• What Next Gen boards are and how they create value

Action Points:

1. Clarify Your Board Purpose: Understand the strategic role of the board and how Purpose, People, and Process create a foundation for effectiveness. Ask yourself if your board time aligns with long-term value creation.
2. Adopt the NED Mindset: Transitioning from executive to non-executive requires letting go of "doing" and mastering "overseeing." Focus on influence, not control, and build credibility through thoughtful contributions.
3. Initiate Chair Conversations Early: Reach out to your Chair between receiving the board pack and the meeting. Share your observations and seek feedback—this builds rapport and positions you as a proactive contributor.
4. Use Generational Differences as an Asset: Recognise generational diversity as a boardroom strength. Take time to understand how differing life experiences shape perspectives, and use that understanding to create inclusive, productive discussions.
5. Practice Self-Awareness and Listening: Being attuned to how others feel and contribute in meetings can amplify your influence. Observe, invite quieter voices in, and seek feedback regularly to improve your effectiveness.

The Boardroom Path is the essential podcast for aspiring and newly appointed Non-Executive Directors (NEDs) navigating the journey from executive leadership to the boardroom. Hosted by Ralph Grayson, partner at Sainty Hird & Partners, each episode offers insightful conversations with industry leaders, seasoned board directors, and governance experts. Our guests share practical strategies, valuable perspectives, and actionable advice on how to effectively transition into board roles, maximise your impact, and build a rewarding NED career. 

Subscribe now, and take your first confident step along The Boardroom Path.

Learn more about Sainty Hird & Partners at saintyhird.com