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VirtualNonExecs is a premier platform for non-executive directors, offering unparalleled access to board opportunities and career tools. Our network enables members to expand their influence and capabilities in boardrooms worldwide, facilitating professional growth and strategic impact. We streamline the journey for aspiring and established NEDs to excel and thrive.

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Unlocking Off-Market M&A: How PE Funds Are Leveraging Non-Exec Networks

This article explores how private equity funds leverage non‑executive director (NED) networks to access off‑market M&A opportunities. It explains why NEDs provide unique deal origination intelligence, highlights the revenue sweet spot for mid‑market businesses, and discusses how VNXD’s platform connects investors with valuable NED insights.

Empowering America's SMBs, One Board Advisor at a Time

Discover how Virtualnonexecs brings seasoned board advisors and independent directors to America’s small and mid‑sized businesses. This article explains the value of board‑level expertise for growth, governance and exit readiness and how VNXD’s global network provides affordable access to non‑executive directors and board advisors.

Young, Ambitious and On the Board: A New Era of Non-Execs

This article discusses the rising presence of younger, next‑generation non‑executive directors on corporate boards. It highlights statistics showing the average age of first‑time independent directors dropping, explores why boards are hiring younger NEDs, and examines how generational diversity is reshaping governance.

Want to Raise Capital? Get a NED First!

Investors now gauge startups by whether they have a Non-Executive Director. Evidence shows NED-linked companies raise more, attract VC interest and scale stronger. A NED brings governance, investor credibility and networks that help start-ups prepare for funding and exit.

Ex-Lawyers Out, Exited Founders In: The New NED Reality

Non-executive director roles are no longer reserved for retired lawyers and accountants. Today, exited founders and scale-up veterans bring growth experience and commercial insight to the boardroom. This shift in supply and demand is reshaping the NED reality, as entrepreneurial directors offer hands-on experience and a fresh perspective.

The Smart Entrepreneur’s Exit Strategy: Hire a NED, Not a Banker (Yet)

Thinking about selling your business? Start by recruiting a non‑executive director, not a banker. Experienced NEDs help prepare your company for sale, fix financial issues, drive governance and strategy, and ensure you hire the right advisers when the time is right.

Family Office Boom: Big Capital, Loose Structure

Family offices have exploded as entrepreneurs and wealthy families invest directly with patient, flexible capital. Unlike private equity or VC funds, these unstructured investment vehicles operate under the radar and base decisions on relationships and values. Learn why the family office boom offers opportunities and challenges for founders and NEDs.

What the Wimbledon Finals Can Teach the Boardroom

The drama of the Wimbledon finals offers more than entertainment—it illustrates resilience, long‑term strategic thinking and composure under pressure. This article draws lessons from Grand Slam champions for boards and NEDs, showing how elite sports strategies can inspire better governance and decision‑making.

The Business of Sport: Why Non-Executive Directors Are No Longer Optional

Professional sports clubs are under pressure to run like businesses. This article explains why non‑executive directors are now essential for football, rugby and cricket boards—bringing commercial discipline, long‑term strategy and independent governance to help clubs weather financial volatility and regulatory scrutiny.

The Role of Non-Executive Directors in Harnessing Pattern Recognition for Business Success

In the era of AI-driven dashboards, experienced non‑executive directors bring pattern recognition—the ability to spot subtle signals and recurring behaviours. Drawing on decades of corporate memory, NEDs read between the lines to identify risks and opportunities that data alone can’t reveal. Learn how this skill drives boardroom success.

The Quiet Power of the Non-Executive in High-Growth Companies

In high-growth companies, a skilled non-executive director provides calm, strategic oversight as entrepreneurs rush to scale. By challenging assumptions, managing risk and bringing governance and corporate memory, NEDs act as a counterweight to bullish CEOs and help startups transition to sustainable scale-ups.

Why Private Equity Needs to Rethink Its Talent Playbook for Portfolio Companies

Private equity’s traditional reliance on battle-hardened chairs to parachute into portfolio companies is breaking down. With fewer exits and retiring operators, funds need a new talent playbook focused on digital natives and diverse independent directors who understand modern business and can help portfolio companies grow and create value.

The Shifting Role of the Non-Exec: Why SMEs Are Rethinking Their Boards

SMEs and scale‑ups are rewriting the non‑executive director playbook. Modern boards want hands‑on expertise in digital marketing, data and growth as well as independent oversight. Today’s NEDs provide fresh energy and practical, strategic guidance to help younger businesses thrive.

Envy and the Erosion of Ambition: Why It’s Ruining the UK

"It Worked Until It Didn’t": Rethinking Recruiters for Non-Exec Roles

The traditional recruiter-driven model for finding non-executive directors is breaking down. As board needs evolve and the talent pool diversifies, companies must rethink search strategies, embrace digital platforms and networks, and focus on transparency and fit.

The London Stock Exchange: Time for a Wake-Up Call

Companies are fleeing the London Stock Exchange for nimbler, cheaper alternatives. Administrative burdens, outdated bureaucracy and high listing costs have turned London into a laggard. This article calls on the LSE to modernise to attract growth companies again.

How much do non-executive directors earn in FTSE companies?

This article explores how much non‑executive directors earn in FTSE companies, summarising Spencer Stuart data on chair, SID and NED remuneration in the FTSE 350. It notes that average chair pay is around £373k with fees declining to 2016 levels, SIDs earn around £164k, and typical NED fees range from £75k–£110k in the FTSE 100 and 250, highlighting differences across sectors and the shifting pay landscape.

London’s Listing Woes: How Over-Regulation is Stifling Entrepreneurial Growth

This article argues that London’s stock market is losing its allure for entrepreneurs due to heavy regulation, complex listing requirements and high compliance costs, leading many high‑growth firms to delist or avoid the LSE. It suggests that while regulatory reforms offer some flexibility, the core issues of burdensome governance and reporting remain, prompting founders and non‑executive directors to look to alternative markets or direct private investment to fuel growth.

The Changing Face of the Modern Non-Executive Director

This article explains how the profile of non‑executive directors has evolved from retired bankers and lawyers to hands‑on entrepreneurs, venture capitalists and scale‑up veterans. It notes that today’s NEDs bring real‑world experience, having grown and exited companies themselves, and that investors now demand board members with commercial insight, operational know‑how and diversity of thought rather than traditional ‘expert’ credentials.

Introducing NEDWorkin' "On Demand": The Ultimate Networking Tool for Board Advisers

This post introduces NEDWorkin’ “On Demand,” a rebranded and enhanced networking platform that uses algorithmic matching to connect board advisers and industry professionals. Formerly known as BoardAI, the intuitive platform lets users make targeted connections, find sector experts and generate deal flow with ease, offering access to over 20,000 board advisers at their fingertips and delivering seamless networking for the Virtualnonexecs community.

The Integral Role of Non-Executives|> in Off-Market Deal Making

Unlocking Business Potential: ExitBoards

Simplifying Strategy: The Role of Non-Executives and External Advisers in Scaling Up

Navigating the Highs and Lows: The Role of Non-Executive Board Advisors in Mitigating Startup Stress

Leveraging M&A Expertise in Non-Executive Roles: A Strategic Move for Value Creation

King or Rich? CEO Transitions: Insights from Harvard Business Review

The Strategic Advantage of Hiring a Fractional CFO for Emerging Companies

From Planning to Perspective: The Essential Influence of Non-Execs in M&A

Balancing the Scales: Why Equity Should Lead the Charge in Diverse Boards

Ambition vs. Access: Unraveling the Chair Role Gender Gap

Fewer than 5% of chair roles we examined in our analysis are held by women.

The Founder's Circadian Clock: The Indispensable Role of Non-Executive Directors

Knowing when enough is enough: Sage advice for non-executives.

Scars as Stars: How Ex-Operators are Revolutionising Non-Executive Roles in PE and VC

The VNXD Operator Network: A Game Changer for Family Offices in the UK, UAE, and USA

The Pivotal Role of M&A Experienced Non-Executives in Elevating Startup Boards

How non-executives can help unlock VC funding

Bringing In A Non-Executive Director: The Madman's Guide To Business Sabotage.

Are recruiters the answer to building a non-executive director career?

The Secret Sauce of Deal Flow: The Non-Executive Directors' Club

If You Don't Like Where You Are, Move. You Are Not a Tree.

From Experience to Innovation: The New Age Dynamics of Boardroom Leadership

More Than Money: Network-Driven Strategies for Savvy Investors

Shaping the Future: Non-Executives' Vital Role in Extending ESG Boundaries

Outnumbered and Outmatched: The Rise of VNXD's Operator Network in VC Circles

The Strategic Asset: Why Startups and Scale-Ups Need Non-Executive Directors

The Invisible Conductor: Deciphering the Paradox of the Non-Executive Director

The Contagious Mind Disease: Raising Money vs. Making Money

Three is the Magic Number: Orchestrating Success for Aspiring NEDs and Chairs

3 is the magic number when it comes to building a non-executive director profile

The Power of Leadership: Assessing the Risks for Investors and Advisors in the Wake of OpenAI's Leadership Shakeup

The Man Who Wanted Everything Yesterday: A Cautionary Tale of Hubris and High Hopes

Money Talks, Wisdom Walks: The Non-Executive Director’s Dilemma

Entering the non-executive fray with pound signs in your eyes is akin to purchasing a fish with aspirations of companionship. You’ll find the investment returns neither affection nor conversation, and any attempts to cash in on your emotional outlay will be met with the cold, unblinking stare of the aquatic.

The AI Obsession: Separating the Pink Elephants from the Real Gems!

Hoping for an IPO Miracle: VCs Dream the Impossible Dream

From Procrastination Purgatory to Bezos-Jobs-ian Productivity: The Sidekicks Entrepreneurs Need

The "Time-Tested" Due Diligence of Executive Hiring: Why NEDs are the Secret Sauce

Buying It Back: Entrepreneurs Who Took the Leap (Again)

The Art of 'Unselling': Why Less is Often More as a Non-Executive Director or Chair

The Power of Peer-Driven Networking: How Non-Execs Become "Mates" in High Places

The Precarious Balance: When "Woke" Businesses Overlook Profitability

Why it is more important to make profit than woke assertions. The failing state of the start up community...

Not Just a Numbers Game: How Human Capital Drives Investment Success

"Go Fast, Go Alone. Go Far, Go Together": Bringing Non-Executive Directors into the Boardroom

Quiet Swoopers: The Subtle Power of Non-Execs in Business Renovation

The Name Game: Avoiding Silly Personal Branding as a Non-Executive Director

Understanding David vs. Goliath: Navigating Business with the Wise Counsel of Non-Executives

The Exalted 'Chief' of Titles: The Hilarious Minefield of Senior Executive Recruitment

Unveiling the Power of Non-Executives: Easing Burdens and Charting Trajectories

The Crash and Burn Phenomenon: Founders, Non-Executives, and the Art of Startups

Should Generative AI be on the board agenda?

Non-Executive Directors: A Tale of 'Give and Take' on the Boardroom Chessboard

Unlocking Mid-Market Potential: The Value of the VNXD Operator Network for Private Equity Firms

Getting sh*t done! The invaluable role of a non-executive director

Now is the time for entrepreneurs to embrace Dubai and the GCC Region

Recruiting a non-executive director in the UAE

Charting Success: The Indispensable Role of Non-Executive Directors in Attracting Investment

PE Firms and NEDs: The Perfect Match Made in Business Heaven

Private Equity (PE) firms can be a bit like parents - they want to have a say in everything, and that includes placing a non-executive director (NED) on the board.

The Non-Executive Director's Dilemma: Thriving in the Age of "We're Alright Now"

Staying relevant as a non-executive director

Positioning Your Non-Executive CV For Success

Can a non-executive director help sell my business?

Entrepreneurs Stuck in the Quicksand of Doubt

How to Let Go of the Ledger: A Finance Director's Guide to Being a Successful Non-Executive Director

Thriving in Turbulence: Non-Executive Directors Propel Early-Stage Startups to Success Amid Uncertainty

Silent Non-Executives! Finding their voice in the boardroom.

Assessing first time non-executive directors

Fountain of Folly: 10 Red Flags to Spot a Fake Guru and Protect Yourself!

Non-Executive Directors: Adding Fresh Perspectives and a Touch of Humour to Private Businesses

Head scratch moment! Building your non-executive portfolio

Build your first non-executive director career

Why Your Personal Brand is More Important Than Your Haircut!

How to improve your personal brand as a non-executive director and make it work for you

Things they won't tell you about being a non-executive director

5 reasons you will not find a non-executive director role

The importance of learning for non-executive directors

Are you ready to pass the reins to your management team? If so, the gnomes are on standby!

The importance of professional services networking for non-executives

How to deal with a difficult board member

The importance of your peer network when raising investment

Raising investment for a pre-revenue start-up

Scaling your business using a non-executive with platform business experience

The most important skills for interviewees

The import things you should do before a non-executive interview

Top tips on networking for non-executive directors

Can a non-executive help me sell my SaaS business?

Is social media useful in a non-executive job search?

How to use social media to help your non-executive director job search

The non-executive CV and ATS

Do non-executive directors typically receive equity?

Building a portfolio career

Building a portfolio career as a non-executive director

Professional Services Firms; the non-executive's best friend

Here is why non-executive directors should be working with professional services firms in the non-exec job search

How do I find my first non-executive director role and am I relevant?

The importance of Mindset in any non-executive director job search

Winning more non-executive director roles comes down to mind-set

Building your personal board of directors

Seeing around corners. The super powers that non-executives bring to your business

Making the step up to become a chair

How can I find a non-executive director role?

Need help starting your non-executive director career? Follow these steps...

What non-executives need to know about Applicant Tracking Systems

How to start a portfolio career

How to win your first non-executive director role

Mistakes to avoid when networking

Making long term business relationships

Board.Ai - The difference between contacts and connections

The shareconomy; connecting non-executive directors

The first 90 days as a non-executive director

The sort of climate change we enjoy....

Selling your business. The value of a strategic exit plan.

Why an advisory board is the best kept secret of successful entrepreneurs!

Advisory Boards. Can you handle the truth?

Is there really a hidden jobs market?

Why endorsements matter

In The Spotlight: Viddyoze on hiring a non-executive director

Who is the most powerful, CEO or Chairman?

Finding a non-executive director - and avoiding family bust ups!

The best way to find a non-executive director for your business...

Start-ups. Cry babies, liars and lazy arses need not apply!

How non-executives are giving SMEs the transfusion they need!

"Boring as rat sh*t". How to run effective Board meetings.

Surrounding yourself with those on the same mission; an entrepreneur's guide to start-ups

Advice for entrepreneurs in start up businesses.

Rule Number 1 of exporting: Don't tell a whole nation to "F**k off"!

Tips for getting more leads from LinkedIn

Are non-executives caught up in IR35?

A masterclass in finding non-executive director positions

You may feel like you have to be a magician to find a non exec job but you don't!

Experiences from inside the board room. What makes a great non-executive director?

Peter Thiel's top tips include "Do one thing uniquely well".

Retired. Now what? How about a non-executive director career?

SHOW ME THE MONEY! How much do non-executives get paid?

Diversity in Boardrooms

Crafting the perfect non-executive director CV

How to create the perfect non-executive director CV.

The questions to ask a non-exective director

New Kids On The Block: Digital Non-Executive Directors

Digital non‑executive directors are reshaping boards. Younger, tech‑savvy NEDs bring digital skills, innovation and broad networks to help companies adapt to rapid technological change. Boards once dominated by accountants and lawyers now welcome digital natives who understand data, AI and customer experience; this new generation of non‑execs balances governance with bold, forward‑looking insight.

The first 90 days as a Non-Executive Director - Tips from 100s of NEDs.

Transitioning into a non‑executive director role requires a structured plan. In this guide, 100s of seasoned NEDs share their top tips for your first 90 days: create a clear work plan, spend time listening and learning, understand the business from the ground up and build relationships with management and staff. Following these practical steps will help new NEDs deliver value quickly and make a successful boardroom debut.

Singing like a canary: The value of the non-executive director

Using the canary‑in‑the‑coalmine analogy, this article explains how non‑executive directors act as an early warning system for businesses. Independent NEDs bring strategic vision and experience to spot dangers, challenge assumptions and offer fresh perspective. Their oversight helps companies avoid pitfalls, navigate growth and unlock long‑term value.

Who can help my business in tough situations?

Companies facing tough situations shouldn’t go it alone. This article explains why non‑executive directors are invaluable in a crisis: they bring external perspective, professional expertise and balanced opinions to board decisions. By opening doors to new contacts, opportunities and sound judgement, NEDs help businesses navigate challenges, avoid groupthink and emerge stronger.

What have non-executive directors ever done for us?

Non-Executive Directors- languishing in recruiters' purgatory!

VirtualNonExecs.com - It's about time!

The inexorable rise of the Digital Non-Executive Director

"Whatifitis" - Nasty disease affecting entrepreneurs!

Money for nothin' and your (drinks) for free. No longer.

Why accountants could be your best bet finding your first non-executive role

Innovation Versus Disruption. More Than One Way To Kill A Fly!

Finding your first Non-Exec role. Patience is a virtue!

Finding your first non-executive director role is tough but with the right CV and guidance it doesn't need to be impossible.