With increasing numbers of senior people professionals sitting on boards as non-executive directors (NEDs), it’s no surprise that many HR leaders have aspirations of building a portfolio career of NED roles. But while chairs are becoming more open to those from HR backgrounds joining boards, getting a NED role remains a competitive and challenging process.

So, what should you consider when deciding whether a NED role is for you? How do you find a suitable role and how can you make an impact from day one? We’ve spoken to board-level headhunters and HR leaders who have landed NED roles and have put together some recommendations to help you set yourself up for success.

While our insights are from the perspectives of UK senior leaders and headhunters, they should be applicable wherever you are based. 

 

Contents

Members access only

Unlock exclusive, tailored content and resources, just for members.

Sign in to access

Not a member yet? Find out how you can become a member today!

CIPD Trust

Tackling barriers to work today whilst creating inclusive workplaces of tomorrow.

Find out more

Bullying
and harassment

Discover our practice guidance and recommendations to tackle bullying and harassment in the workplace. 

View our resources

More on this topic

Podcast

HR People Pod

Listen to our new fortnightly podcast providing expert insights from HR leaders on the topical issues impacting the world of work

Listen now
Case study
Improving diversity in the workplace: Bupa Arabia

A case study on how Bupa Arabia developed a framework for diversity and inclusion following the Bupa Global model, illustrating their commitment to EDI in the workplace

Factsheet
The non-executive director role

Learn how non-executive directors (NEDs) differ from executive directors and how they operate within an organisation

For Members
Factsheet
Corporate responsibility: An introduction

This factsheet explores corporate responsibility and putting it into action in the workplace

For Members

Latest guides

Guide
Sexual harassment in the workplace: Guidance for people professionals

Practical advice on how to tackle sexual harassment in the workplace

For Members
Guide
Tackling in-work poverty: Guidance for employers

This guide explains in-work poverty, its effects and what employers can do to help

Guide
Employee financial wellbeing

Guidance for HR practitioners and employers to support their employees’ financial wellbeing

Guide
How to choose the right technology for your business

Practical advice on adopting and responsibly investing in technology to optimise job quality and business outcomes

All guides