Board/NED search

Appointing directors who bring the independent judgment and strategic foresight required for effective governance.

The modern board must navigate complexity with composure and foresight. It provides the essential leadership and collaboration that balances risk and guides strategy. Appointing the right Non-Executive Director (NED) is therefore one of the most consequential decisions an organisation can make. It is a search for wisdom and character.

At SKL Executive, we understand that a board is a finely calibrated ecosystem. Our search process is designed to identify and attract directors who not only possess the requisite skills and independence but who also enhance the board’s collective dynamic.


OUR APPROACH

How we deliver board appointments

We act as trusted advisors to Chairs, Nomination Committees, and CEOs, conducting a search process that is as rigorous as it is discreet. Our approach is founded on a deep understanding of governance, corporate strategy, and the nuances of board-level chemistry. We look beyond the CV to assess for true independence of thought and the courage to provide constructive challenge.

We believe a high-performing board is a diverse one. Our methodology is designed to broaden the field of candidates, bringing forward directors from varied backgrounds who offer fresh perspectives and protect against groupthink, ensuring your board has the breadth of experience to navigate future challenges.

Our Board Search Process

Our process is structured and built on partnership, ensuring alignment at every stage.

  1. Discovery & Board Composition Analysis
    We begin by understanding your strategy and current board matrix to define the ideal candidate profile and key competencies required.
  2. Market Research & Candidate Identification
    Leveraging deep market intelligence and a network of sources, we identify a longlist of high-calibre potential directors, mapping for skills and diversity of thought.
  3. Engagement & Initial Assessment
    Our team of researchers engages potential candidates, evaluating their expertise and alignment with your organisation’s values.
  4. Comprehensive Evaluation
    Candidates are shortlisted based on an internal evaluation process, drawing on in-depth conversations with candidates as well as our deep industry knowledge and connections to ensure only the best pool of candidates is presented.
  5. Shortlist Presentation & Stakeholder Alignment
    We present a detailed report of qualified and diverse candidates, facilitating interviews and ensuring all stakeholders are aligned.
  6. Offer & Onboarding Support
    We assist in managing the offer and appointment process and provide support to ensure the new director is onboarded effectively for a seamless and impactful integration.
THE SKL EXECUTIVE DIFFERENCE

Why partner with us for your board search?

  • Senior Delivery
    Every board search is led directly by our Managing Director, ensuring you receive experienced counsel and access to our networks.
  • Focus on Dynamics
    We go beyond skills-matching to assess how a candidate will complement and enhance your existing board dynamic, fostering a more effective and cohesive team.
  • Uncompromising Discretion
    We operate with the utmost confidentiality, protecting the integrity of the process and the privacy of all parties involved.
  • Commitment to Diversity
    We are dedicated to presenting inclusive shortlists that provide a genuine choice of perspectives, strengthening your board’s decision-making capabilities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Our process is designed for discretion. Mandates are managed by a small, senior team, and no candidate or source is approached without explicit alignment. We can also use NDAs to protect client identity until the appropriate stage as required.

While each search is unique, a typical NED appointment process takes between 8 to 12 weeks from initial brief to the presentation of a shortlist.

We assess cultural fit by focusing on stakeholder engagement capabilities and leadership style. Our deep industry networks combined with relevant insights from peers and former colleagues also provides further insight into how a director contributes to and influences board culture.

Let’s talk

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