Do I need the AICD course to be a NED?

Pursuing a Non-Executive Director (NED) role is often a natural progression for talented senior leaders with the strategic, operational and business skills that lend themselves effectively to the process and delivery of good governance.

Directors should be capable of seeing company and business issues with a broad perspective and may be appointed because of their independence but, ultimately, they have the same legal duties, responsibilities and potential liabilities as their executive counterparts. This is a critical consideration and, before accepting any appointment, potential NEDs should undertake thorough due diligence to ensure confidence, certainty and trust. A thorough understanding of the landscape in which an organisation operates is also critical, as is a deep dive into functions, financials and viability.

Organisations often seek out NEDs who are solution driven problem solvers to help overcome challenges and complexities impacting potential and growth. Professionals from across a huge range of industries possess the skillsets to drive change, tackle problems and develop solutions, given these skills are also crucial to anyone in a senior leadership role. However, a process of transition needs to take place to ensure that new NEDs understand the operational focus critical to success in previous leadership roles is no longer required.  What is required is a significant adjustment in mindset and approach to successfully shift towards oversight and governance.