Securing Your First NED Role: A Comprehensive Guide to Success

As your career traverses and your moving to a position where you want to secure your first NED role, there are a number of strategies that you need to ensure that you are implementing. I strongly believe that local government officers often make excellent Non-Executive Directors (NEDs) due to their extensive experience in public service and governance. They possess a deep understanding of regulatory frameworks, community needs, and the importance of transparency and accountability. Their ability to navigate complex political landscapes and manage diverse stakeholder relationships equips them with the skills to provide balanced and strategic oversight. Additionally, their commitment to public welfare and ethical standards aligns well with the responsibilities of a NED, ensuring that they can contribute effectively to the board's decision-making processes and help steer the organisation towards sustainable success.

Being a Non-Executive Director allows you to leverage your experience and insights to shape the strategic direction of an organisation, foster innovation, and ensure robust governance. It's a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact while broadening your own professional horizons.

To support local government officers and members secure there first NED role we have created this guide to provide a clear set of actions that you need to adhere to to maximise your chances of securing that elusive first NED role. Here is what you need to do:

Ensure your motivations are clear

Having clear motivation is crucial, especially when transitioning to a Non-Executive Director (NED) role. It helps you stay focused and committed, ensuring that your actions are purposeful and aligned with your long-term objectives. Without clear motivation, you might find yourself struggling to stay engaged or making decisions that don't truly serve your interests or the organisation's needs. Understanding your reasons for pursuing a NED role allows you to approach the position with genuine enthusiasm and dedication, ultimately contributing to more effective governance and a rewarding experience.

Clear motivation is the driving force behind purposeful action. It ensures that your efforts are aligned with your goals, leading to greater satisfaction and success.

Be patient. Very patient

Don't anticipate landing your first NED role quickly. The pace in the NED world is markedly different from that of the executive realm. When recruiting executives, companies typically have a precise profile in mind and actively pursue candidates. In contrast, the criteria for NEDs are often less defined, and the process can be more prolonged, especially if the board isn't seeking a direct replacement. Boards tend to consider various options, and you should adopt the same approach. Continue networking and researching even if you believe you've found the ideal position. You might engage in numerous promising discussions that don't progress further. Persist, even if it feels like you're not making headway.

Gain experience first; demonstrate your capability

There are several pathways to a directorship, such as becoming a school governor or volunteering as a charity trustee. Many of the duties and responsibilities overlap with those of a NED. These roles allow you to learn and practise the NED role in a less pressured environment (especially when you're not receiving a fee). Simultaneously, you can leverage your experience to make a positive impact. It's a mutually beneficial situation.

Network, network, network

Many successful NEDs have secured their roles outside of formal processes. Advertised positions often attract hundreds of applications, making the odds less favourable. The key is to actively engage with the industry by attending events and meeting professionals. The broader your network, the higher your chances of discovering opportunities or receiving referrals. If personal networking is challenging due to other commitments, online platforms and social media offer ample opportunities for research and networking.

Networking is the bridge that connects you to opportunities, knowledge, and relationships. It amplifies your influence, opens doors to new possibilities, and fosters growth both personally and professionally.

Enhance your LinkedIn visibility

Whether you love it or loathe it, LinkedIn is an invaluable tool for networking and securing NED opportunities. Directly finding a role through LinkedIn can be challenging and time-consuming, but if your profile stands out, opportunities may come your way. Regularly review and update your profile, emphasising what you can offer as a NED. Ensure your skills and experience include relevant keywords that will appear in search results. There are numerous ways to improve your profile and attract more views – look for online tutorials on how to optimise your presence for both algorithms and human viewers.

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Investigate thoroughly before committing

When you identify a potential opportunity, it's essential to conduct thorough due diligence. Joining a board should be approached with the same level of scrutiny as joining an executive team. Committing to an organisation with unresolved issues or upcoming challenges can lead to complications, particularly if you are assuming regulatory responsibilities. It's also crucial to understand the company's culture and be clear about your role and objectives. For more detailed guidance on due diligence, check out our next blog.

Thorough investigation before committing to a NED role is essential. It ensures you align with the organisation's values, understand its challenges, and are prepared to contribute effectively. Due diligence is the foundation of informed decision-making and successful governance.

Identify where you can contribute and want to make an impact

Pinpoint the areas where your insights can be most valuable. Are you proficient in finance, or do you thrive in managing people? Do you have experience as a mentor or coach? Do you have connections in a particular sector that could benefit the organisation? Reflect on whether you are drawn to the public, private, or charity sector, mid-sized businesses, startups, or CICs. The more you hone your offering and clarify your goals, the better your chances of landing the perfect NED role.

Master candidate profiling

To secure not only your first NED role but also all future NED roles, focus on your capability profile and link it to the specific role. Your capability profile consists of three sections that form a tripartite matrix, creating your candidate profile. You can adjust the emphasis on different aspects of your profile as needed.

The Profile is designed to provide a consistent interpretation among all stakeholders of the person profile required to succeed in the role. It serves as a guide to identify, measure, compare, and contrast candidates. Candidates should have a demonstrable record of achievement in key areas of technical expertise, which may include qualifications, seniority, sector, and geographical exposure.

People in 360° refers to the ability to lead and positively influence all internal team members, external stakeholders, as well as regulators, customers, and the board.

The Person section requires candidates to have demonstrable experience in all essential parts of the profile and the ability or willingness to address any gaps in desirable areas.

This structured approach ensures that your capability profile is comprehensive and aligned with the specific role you are targeting.

In conclusion, securing your first Non-Executive Director (NED) role requires a strategic and well-rounded approach. By focusing on your capability profile and linking it to specific roles, you can present yourself as a strong candidate. Networking extensively, enhancing your visibility on platforms like LinkedIn, and gaining relevant experience through stepping-stone roles are crucial steps. Additionally, conducting thorough due diligence before committing to a board position ensures that you align with the organisation's culture and objectives. Clear motivation and understanding your reasons for pursuing a NED role will keep you focused and committed. By taking these actions, you not only increase your chances of securing your first NED role but also set yourself up for success in future positions. Remember, the journey to becoming a successful NED is continuous, and each step you take brings you closer to making a meaningful impact in the boardroom.

This blog post was sponsored by Local Partnerships LLP, who help local authorities to deliver projects and implement changes efficiently. They offer expertise in climate adaptation, energy efficiency, waste management, housing, infrastructure, procurement, and digital transformation, ensuring excellent value for money and meeting key priorities.