What does it really take to succeed as a non-executive director in today's complex board environment?

In this episode of The Boardroom Path, host Ralph Grayson is joined by Elise Perraud, COO of NEDonBoard, to discuss how she is championing greater inclusivity, professionalism, and strategic awareness in boardrooms across the UK.

Drawing on her extensive experience in risk management and governance, Elise explains the critical importance of certification, the changing profile of aspiring NEDs, and the role of advisory and trustee roles as stepping stones.

Elise also shares valuable perspectives on the power of peer networks, the underestimated complexity of NED roles, and why younger professionals should start their board journey early.

Whether you're an aspiring director or a seasoned executive considering the shift, this conversation offers timely insights and grounded advice to help you thrive in the boardroom.

• (00:00) - Welcome to The Boardroom Path

Elise Perraud: Chief Operations Officer at NEDonBoard, Elise specialises in board governance, risk management, and non-executive leadership. She is a passionate advocate for diversity, sustainability, and raising professional standards in the boardroom.

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:

• Why board certification matters and how it supports a successful NED career
• How advisory boards and trustee roles can be strategic entry points
• What younger professionals bring to the boardroom and why early entry helps
• How to assess if a NED role is right for you and your career stage
• What makes a board effective and how to recognise dysfunction

Action Points:

1. Start with Self-Assessment: Define your value proposition by aligning your strengths with the types of boards and roles that best suit your experience and aspirations. Understanding what you bring to the table is essential before applying.
2. Invest in Board Training: Pursue certification through programmes like the NED Accelerator or NED Diploma. Structured learning helps you understand the responsibilities, dynamics, and risks of NED roles.
3. Explore Advisory and Trustee Roles: These roles offer practical experience and can act as stepping stones into formal board positions. They also help you build a NED-relevant CV before fully transitioning from executive life.
4. Build Your Board Network: Actively participate in professional events and communities to connect with peers and learn from experienced NEDs. These relationships can provide insights and opportunities.
5. Evaluate Board Dynamics Carefully: Not all board roles are created equal. Assess the culture, governance practices, and expectations before accepting a role to ensure it aligns with your values and availability.

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

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

Are UK public markets still fit for purpose—or are boards losing touch with their shareholders? In this episode of The Boardroom Path, host Ralph Grayson welcomes Barry Gamble, a leading boardroom thinker and Senior Advisor to the Non-Executive Directors Association. Together, they explore the evolving role of non-executive directors, the decline of AIM, and how public markets are losing companies to private equity.

Barry draws from his deep experience in board governance, activism, and shareholder engagement to question whether current governance structures serve stakeholders effectively. He shares insights into the concept of “board washing,” the growing complexity of regulation, and why formal debate might just be the key to better board decision-making. Barry also previews his upcoming Quoted Companies Alliance debate and reflects on his involvement in revisiting the Higgs Review.

This episode is a must-listen for aspiring and current NEDs who want to better understand the risks, responsibilities, and rewards of board service in today’s evolving governance landscape.

• (00:00) - Introduction to The Boardroom Path

Barry Gamble: Barry is Senior Advisor to the Non-Executive Directors Association, Advisory Board member at Board Agenda magazine, and Chair of Boardroom City Debates. He is a seasoned public and private company director, boardroom commentator, and former editor-at-large of Boardroom Magazine, with expertise in governance, shareholder engagement, and boardroom dynamics.

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:

• Why public markets are losing companies and what it means for board governance
• The importance of high-quality, respectful boardroom debate
• How shareholder trust is affected when companies delist from AIM
• What "board washing" is and why it threatens transparency
• How technology and generational change are reshaping board composition

Action Points:

1. Rethink the Role of the NED: Barry argues for a redefinition of the non-executive director title, stressing how the current term undersells the weight of responsibility. Revisiting the Higgs Review may be a crucial opportunity to align title with accountability.
2. Foster Genuine Boardroom Debate: Structured, formal debate can improve decision-making and reveal nuance in complex governance issues. Create environments where challenging views are welcomed and actively explored.
3. Prioritise Governance Over Compliance: Don’t let lengthy annual reports and regulatory overload dilute board focus. NEDs should focus their bandwidth on strategy, risk, and meaningful oversight rather than ticking boxes.
4. Watch for "Board Washing": Beware of glossy governance statements that obscure deeper issues. Transparency, not performance theatre, is the hallmark of genuine board effectiveness.
5. Balance Technology with Human Insight: While AI and digital tools can streamline board processes, directors must still engage deeply with information. Use tech to aid—not replace—critical thinking and strategic dialogue.

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

What separates a good board from a great one—and how can aspiring non-executive directors (NEDs) stand out in today’s evolving boardroom landscape? 

In this episode of The Boardroom Path, host Ralph Grayson is joined by Kieran Moynihan, Managing Partner at Board Excellence, to explore the skills, mindset, and dynamics that define high-performing boards.

Drawing on his experience evaluating hundreds of boards across 35+ countries, Kieran shares what aspiring NEDs need to know—from mastering boardroom behaviour to navigating complex governance challenges. The conversation delves into the evolving role of the board, the importance of strategic thinking and emotional intelligence, and why the partnership between executive teams and NEDs is critical for organisational success.

Whether you're preparing for your first NED appointment or seeking to enhance your board effectiveness, this episode offers practical advice and eye-opening insights to help you thrive at the board level.

• (00:00) - Mastering the NED Role: What Every Aspiring Director Needs to Know

Kieran Moynihan: Kieran is the Managing Partner of Board Excellence, a global board advisory firm supporting boards and individual directors in effectiveness, governance, and performance. With over 25 years of board experience, including roles as CEO, NED, and Chair, he is a recognised thought leader in board dynamics, evaluation, and leadership development.

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 boards look for in first-time and aspiring non-executive directors
• The key skills and behaviours that distinguish high-performing boards
• How to assess whether a board opportunity aligns with your values and goals
• Why emotional intelligence is essential in the boardroom
• How governance, strategy, and culture are reshaping board responsibilities today

Action Points:

1. Prepare for the NED Role: Understand that becoming a non-executive director requires a mindset shift from operational leadership to strategic oversight. Study the principles of governance and reflect on whether you're ready to influence without managing.
2. Do Your Due Diligence: Before accepting a board position, research the organisation thoroughly. Meet with the chair, CEO, and at least one current NED to understand the culture, expectations, and risks.
3. Build Boardroom Confidence: Take time to observe and listen during your early meetings, but aim to contribute meaningfully within your first few sessions. Knowing when and how to speak up is critical for influence.
4. Develop Your Strategic Thinking: Boards need directors who can think beyond oversight and bring innovative, forward-looking perspectives. Cultivate your ability to analyse business models, industry shifts, and growth strategies.
5. Embrace Continuous Learning: Stay current on emerging board trends, from ESG to AI and digital risk. Attending NED training or shadowing experienced board members can significantly enhance 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

Are you ready to make a successful transition from executive leadership to an impactful non-executive director role?

In this episode of The Boardroom Path, host Ralph Grayson is joined by Murray Steele, an acclaimed expert who has guided over 12,000 board members worldwide. Together, they explore essential behaviours for boardroom effectiveness, the nuanced transition from executive to NED, and the critical balance between challenging and supporting executive teams.

This insightful discussion uncovers practical advice, compelling experiences, and essential insights for anyone aspiring to or embarking upon a journey into the boardroom.

• (00:00) - The Boardroom Path by Sainty Hird & Partners E1

Murray Steele: Murray Steele is a distinguished figure in board governance, with over three decades of experience as both Chair and Non-Executive Director across numerous sectors. He currently chairs Octopus Apollo VCT PLC, the UK's second-largest Venture Capital Trust, and Surface Generation, a pioneering advanced manufacturing technology firm. Renowned for establishing and running leading NED development programmes at Cranfield School of Management and the Financial Times, Murray uniquely combines rigorous academic insight with practical boardroom experience, making him a trusted advisor on corporate governance, effective board dynamics, and strategic leadership.

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:

• Understanding and mastering the behavioural dynamics of an effective board.
• The transition from executive management to a non-executive director role.
• Balancing constructive challenge and support as a non-executive director.
• Recognising and addressing dysfunctional boardroom dynamics.
• Practical steps to secure your first board position and build a successful portfolio career.

Action Points:

1. Reflect on Your Behavioural Impact: Assess your self-awareness and emotional intelligence before transitioning into a non-executive role. Identify your biases, consider your communication style, and consciously adapt your executive habits to non-executive board dynamics. Prioritise behaviours that foster trust, challenge constructively, and support executives effectively.
2. Enhance Your Listening Skills: Actively cultivate your listening abilities to excel in your boardroom role, given that non-executive directorship requires significantly more listening than speaking. Practise attentive listening in your current professional environment to build habits that translate naturally to the boardroom. Remember, effective listening demonstrates respect, builds trust, and strengthens relationships with executives and board peers.
3. Prepare Thoughtfully for Board Interviews: Move beyond your executive CV by clearly articulating how your experience uniquely solves specific boardroom needs and enhances the board’s current skills matrix. Research extensively on the organisation, its market, board members, and governance challenges prior to your interview. Tailor your interview approach specifically around how you add strategic value and fit with the board’s existing dynamic and objectives.
4. Gain Early Board Experience: Seek out initial non-executive roles such as becoming a school governor, charity trustee, or pension trustee to build a foundational understanding of non-executive responsibilities and behaviours. Embrace roles outside your usual executive domain to challenge yourself and force adaptation of new ways of thinking and communicating. Leverage this experience as credible proof of your commitment and readiness for more significant boardroom positions.
5. Proactively Network for Opportunities: Make sure your professional network knows you are actively pursuing non-executive director roles, clearly articulating your value and the types of boards you wish to join. Attend relevant industry events, professional seminars, and networking opportunities targeted towards governance professionals and senior leaders. Remember, clarity and intentionality in networking significantly improve your visibility and access to boardroom opportunities.

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

Ever wondered what it takes to land your first Non-Executive Director role and truly succeed in the boardroom?

In this insightful episode of The Boardroom Path, Graham Durgan, founder of the Non-Executive Directors Association (NEDA), joins host Ralph Grayson to demystify the journey into board-level roles. From exploring essential skills and qualifications to discussing why diversity and inclusion are critical for board effectiveness, Graham shares his extensive experience to guide aspiring NEDs.

This conversation sheds light on practical strategies, common pitfalls, and actionable insights for anyone aiming to transition effectively from executive positions to impactful NED roles.

• (00:00) - The Certified NED: Why Your Board Career Should Start with Certification

Graham Durgan: Graham is the founder of the Non-Executive Directors Association (NEDA), a professional body dedicated to preparing and supporting non-executive directors through structured learning, certification, and thought leadership. With a unique career that began in accountancy at PwC and ventured into entrepreneurship—ranging from a ski-holiday business to educational publishing—Graham combines entrepreneurial spirit with decades of experience in governance, training, and mentorship. His work with NEDA focuses on promoting rigorous standards and broadening boardroom diversity, making him a respected authority on the skills and mindsets required to excel as a non-executive director.

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:

• The essential skills and mindsets needed to excel as a non-executive director.
• Why boardroom diversity and inclusion drive better decision-making and business outcomes.
• Practical steps aspiring NEDs can take to secure their first board position.
• The key differences between executive and non-executive roles, and how to manage the transition effectively.
• Why formal training and certification significantly improve your readiness for board roles.

Action Points:

1. Clarify Your Value Proposition: Clearly define what unique value you can bring to a board. Reflect on your skills, experiences, and insights, and prepare specific examples that demonstrate how you can address existing skill gaps on a particular board. Positioning yourself as a problem-solver rather than merely a candidate improves your chances of success.
2. Invest in Certification: Consider formal certification, such as the Non-Executive Directors Association programme, to validate your boardroom knowledge. Certification not only builds self-confidence but also signals your preparedness to future chairs and nomination committees. This demonstrates your commitment to continuous professional development and governance best practices.
3. Cultivate Boardroom Mindset: Transition your mindset from operational leadership to strategic oversight. Practise active listening, offering advice rather than directives, and embrace your role as a challenger rather than a manager. Developing a more reflective and advisory approach positions you effectively for board-level influence.
4. Understand Board Culture: Research thoroughly the culture, style, and dynamics of boards you wish to join. Evaluate if the board aligns with your personal values, communication style, and working habits, as cultural fit significantly impacts your ability to contribute effectively. Engaging with current or past board members can provide critical insights into whether you will thrive in that environment.
5. Prepare Thoroughly for Your First Role: Approach securing your first board seat methodically, ensuring your CV and application emphasise strategic accomplishments and advisory experiences rather than executive operational duties. Network proactively through industry contacts, recruitment firms, and professional associations like NEDA. Be patient yet persistent, as securing the first board role often requires substantial groundwork and strategic networking.

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