Board appointments can make or break a company.

There is no doubt that corporations require a strong Board. Those that examine the company with a view to engaging with it, whether it be as an investor, a supplier, a customer or potential executive, look to see who are the Board members. It is this group -the Board- that are important, with their blend of skills and experience that add value to the organisation.

So, in making an appointment to a Board, it is very important that these factors are kept in mind. It is certainly not about “mates” or who knows who, but a proper plan to fill the gap of experience and with the background that will add strength to the Board and its ability to deliver.

There is the need for a proper and independent process, which will deliver the best solution. To start with, what are the current skills and experience “around the table”? This review identifies the gap. Furthermore, this exercise will lead to defining the required person profile.

Now to the process that will deliver the best result, it is important to engage an independent experienced consultant. This will enable a proper search for the profile sort. The current Board can then make a decision based on a search of the “market”, which delivers an appropriate short-list from which a proper appointment can be made.

Again, it is important to have a Board that is a group that will deliver successful outcomes for the organisation, and have proper governance which the shareholders, the employees and its related parties.

Remember, these appointments are critical to the success of the business, it is not a matter of a “collection of friends” but it is how outsiders will see the Board, the organisation. Therefore, its capability. The best process will produce the best outcome.

By Trevor Clark, OAM