For years, the go-to approach for finding non-executive roles was simple: work with a recruiter. It made sense. Recruiters had the networks, the expertise, and the inside track on boardroom opportunities. And for many, this worked – until it didn’t. The world has changed. The boardroom landscape is evolving, and the traditional recruitment model hasn’t […]

Another one bites the dust. Just Eat Takeaway.com, a global behemoth in the food delivery space, has announced it’s pulling its secondary listing from the London Stock Exchange. Why? The administrative burden, complexity, and costs have made it untenable. If a giant like Just Eat can’t justify staying listed in London, what hope is there for […]

The FTSE is a hugely important index which tracks the performance of the largest companies in the UK. It’s made up of 180 individual stocks, including household names such as BP, Tesco and Vodafone. As well as being a useful benchmark for investors to gauge how different sectors are performing, it also provides a good […]

The London Stock Exchange (LSE) has long been a symbol of financial strength and market credibility, but in recent years it has lost much of its allure, particularly among entrepreneurs and growing companies. This trend is starkly reflected in the number of firms choosing to delist or avoid listing on the exchange altogether. Non-executives and […]

Gone are the days when non-executive directors were exclusively drawn from the worlds of banking or law. If that surprises you, you might not have been close to the shift that’s taken place over the last decade. Today, the landscape of board appointments looks very different, and for those businesses – particularly in private equity, […]

I am thrilled to announce the launch of our newly rebranded and enhanced algorithmic matching platform (previously known as BoardAI), NEDWorkin’ “On Demand.” This exciting development comes as a natural extension of the overwhelming success we’ve seen with our NEDWorkin’ events, which have become an essential resource for board advisers and industry professionals seeking meaningful […]

In the general M&A landscape, non-executive directors often serve as the silent architects behind successful transactions. They bring a wealth of experience, strategic acumen, and a robust network of connections to the table, enabling them to steer businesses through complex processes with finesse. Despite their critical role, traditional deal platforms have largely overlooked the unique […]

When scaling businesses, the allure of diversification can sometimes lead to a cluttered corporate strategy, over-extended resources, and diluted brand identity. This can result in a chaotic business environment that hampers growth rather than fostering it. The old adage “Keep it simple” holds particularly true for scale-ups striving to establish themselves in competitive markets. Additionally, […]

The entrepreneurial journey is as exhilarating as it is exhausting. Founders often find themselves grappling with sleepless nights, over-packed schedules, and an unyielding addiction to hustle. These are not just operational demands but badges of honour that signify commitment and aspiration towards monumental success. Yet, this relentless pursuit comes at a high psychological price – […]

The integration of seasoned M&A professionals as non-executive directors on boards is not just beneficial; it is essential for navigating the complexities and unlocking the potential of M&A. Detailed insights from PitchBook’s Q3 2023 US VC Valuations Report highlight the tangible benefits and strategic advantages of incorporating M&A expertise at the board level. 1. Strategic […]

Startups are funny things. Founders with the dream of being the next Bill Gates or Jeff Bezos is common among founders who envision leading their creations to greatness. However, the reality, as presented in findings from the Harvard Business Review, is often quite different. Analysis of numerous American startups from the late 1990s and early […]

At Virtualnonexecs, we specialize in understanding the crucial roles within companies, particularly for those in pivotal stages of their growth. Over the years, both through my own experiences and through our extensive network at Virtualnonexecs, we’ve recognised the in-demand nature of CFO expertise, especially from private equity funds, venture capital firms, and family offices. A […]

In any M&A landscape, non-executive directors can hold a pivotal position, often bridging gaps and offering invaluable insights that drive successful outcomes. They are uniquely positioned within the boardrooms of countless private companies, bringing a wealth of experience and a distinct perspective that is crucial during transaction processes. Their involvement can significantly influence the preparation, […]

In the investment work (private equity, venture capital and so on) every decision can tip the scales towards success or failure. Recently, the spotlight has turned towards the composition of boards, specifically through the lens of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). But is there a secret ingredient in the DEI formula that could redefine the […]

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

In the quiet hours of the morning or the deep silence of night, there’s a mysterious phenomenon experienced by many – waking up moments before an alarm pierces the calm. This internal mechanism, often referred to as our circadian clock, reveals our body’s innate ability to anticipate and prepare us for what’s next, ensuring we’re […]

“Stop having hard conversations with people who don’t want change.” (Anthony Hopkins). Applying the essence of Anthony Hopkins’ powerful words to the context of non-executive directors advising companies that disregard their guidance, we can frame a perspective that underscores the importance of discernment, self-respect, and the judicious investment of one’s energy and expertise. As a […]

Venture Capital and Private Equity, particularly within the mid-market sector, have seen a palpable shift – a transformation in the approach to hiring non-executive directors that is reshaping the landscape of investments and corporate governance. Gone are the days when the role of a non-executive director was confined to the boardroom, primarily focused on oversight […]

Family offices have often been perceived through the same lens as private equity and venture capital funds. However, their operational and investment strategies diverge significantly. Unlike their PE and VC counterparts, family offices typically engage in fewer investments and exhibit a more conservative approach towards spending on professional fees, particularly in the pre-deal phase. This […]

How non-executives can help unlock VC funding

There’s an enigmatic piece, often whispered about in hallowed boardrooms – the non-executive director (NED). You might have heard these creatures bring invaluable insight, experience, and oversight to a company. But let’s be absolutely clear: hiring a NED is about as sensible as using a chocolate teapot. Here’s my guide on why roping in a […]

Finding a non-executive director (NED) role via traditional recruiters can often feel like a quest for the proverbial needle in a haystack. This is not merely an anecdotal observation but a reality rooted in the economics and practices of the recruitment industry. Recruiters, by their very nature, are driven by the potential return on their […]

If you’re a PE or VC fund and you’re not rubbing elbows with non-executive directors, you might as well be searching for treasure without a map. OK, they’re not the only route to deal flow but they can be invaluable! In the grand ‘Circle of Life’ of deals – from Series A to Z – […]

As the founder of Virtualnonexecs and having advised literally thousands of non-executive directors over the past decade, I’ve witnessed a curious phenomenon. Many professionals tell me about their ambition to build a rich portfolio of clients as a NED, yet find themselves rooted in inaction. It reminds me of a simple, yet profound saying, “If […]

In the serene waters of the business world, a new wave is rising – one that is fresher, bolder, and distinctly younger. This is the wave of the modern non-executive, a sprightly breed of board advisors, chairs, and fractional board-level contributors who are surfing their way into the boardrooms with a zest hitherto unseen. Gone […]

In the highly charged game of venture capital and private equity, the rules of engagement have evolved. Gone are the days when a hefty cheque was enough to win over the most promising entrepreneurs. Today’s savvy business founders seek more than just financial infusion; they look for partners who bring substantial value to the table. […]

The concept of giving is not just a moral imperative; it is a cornerstone of successful business practice. This notion is particularly salient in today’s corporate world, where the integration of giving into business strategies has become increasingly significant. This is especially true for non-executive directors, whose unique position allows them to contribute significantly to […]

If you thought the world of venture capital and early-stage investing was cut-throat, think again. It’s worse. Some liken it to navigating a shark-infested ocean, where a “vast network” is the lifeboat every VC clings to, touted as the ultimate ace up their sleeve. It’s the cheat code that turns a high-stakes game of Monopoly […]

When navigating the complexities of scaling a business, the insight of a Non-Executive Director (NED) can be transformative. Often perceived merely as overseers of corporate governance, NEDs’ roles, especially in the context of startups and scale-ups, are far more nuanced and integral to growth than traditional views might suggest. Beyond Governance: The Active Role of […]

Imagine a symphony orchestra without a conductor. The musicians are skilled, each playing their respective instruments with expertise, but there’s no one to lead them, no visible guiding hand to unify the diverse sounds into a harmonious melody. This is the curious case of the non-executive director, a role often misunderstood because of its title […]

There’s a peculiar ailment that seems to be spreading like wildfire among the younger generations. It’s a mind disease so infectious that it can make a room full of people break into a chorus of buzzwords and tech jargon faster than you can say “venture capital.” Ladies and gentlemen, meet the epidemic of thinking that […]

The recent upheaval at OpenAI, marked by the abrupt termination of CEO Sam Altman, has sent ripples through the investment community. This event highlights a critical risk factor in modern business: the influence of powerful figureheads on investor confidence and company valuation. By examining this case and referencing similar scenarios with prominent leaders like Elon […]

Once upon a time, in the land of high-powered executives and plush corner offices, there lived a man named Richard. Richard was the embodiment of corporate success, with a tailor-made suit for every day of the week and a PA who could schedule his life down to the minute. But one day, Richard decided he’d […]

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.

In the grand theatre of venture capitalism, nothing says “high hopes and shattered dreams” quite like an IPO. 2023, for instance, showcased this epic drama as VCs clutched onto the glimmers of hope that IPOs like Klaviyo and Instacart brought, only to watch them fizzle out like a wet firework on Bonfire Night. A Glimmer […]

Procrastination, often likened to the slippery banana peel of productivity, has an uncanny ability to trip up even the most ambitious entrepreneurs. It’s a formidable foe that can hinder progress, derail dreams, and leave you languishing in the abyss of missed opportunities. But fret not, for there exists a dynamic duo in the business world, […]

Have you ever bought a product purely based on its glossy advert and then found out it didn’t quite meet expectations? Enter the world of executive hiring. We often rely on well-polished CVs, rehearsed interviews, and references that are essentially “pre-approved testimonials”. But what if there was a way to bypass this superficial layer and […]

And the somewhat laughable life lessons they picked up along the way. 1. Zico Coconut Water:Don’t let giants babysit your baby When Mark Rampolla handed over Zico to Coca-Cola, he might have imagined sipping coconut water on a sun-kissed beach. Little did he realize, he’d be back at the counter ordering his own brand. Who […]

Ah, the British. We love our queues, our biscuits, our incessant talk about the weather, and – let’s admit it – a jolly good bargain. But when it comes to selling ourselves, many Brits become more tongue-tied than a cat who’s got the cream (or perhaps a bit of yarn). You see, there’s a very […]

From Pub Chats to Boardrooms If you’ve ever downed a pint in a British pub, you’ve probably been part of the sacred ritual of ‘networking.’ Yes, that jolly exchange where you discover that your mate’s cousin’s best friend knows someone who can get you into that exclusive golf club. Well, turns out, our innate ability […]

Ah, investing. A sport where the person with the fanciest spreadsheet used to win. But let’s be honest, the financial ecosystem has evolved. It’s no longer just about crunching numbers or having a killer instinct. These days, you’re only as good as your network—or should we say, your “operator network.” Let’s talk turkey (and no, […]

In the savannahs of Africa, an ancient proverb whispers, “Go fast, go alone. Go far, go together.” This age-old wisdom is more relevant today than ever, especially when viewed through the lens of business and, more specifically, the corporate boardroom. The entrepreneurial spirit is both a blessing and a curse. Founders, burning with the fire […]

From the Boardroom to the Circus Tent: Choosing the Non-Executive Life Being a non-executive director can sometimes feel like joining an exclusive club – a gathering of the corporate elite, sipping on aged whisky and debating the existential concerns of the business world. But, just as not every Joe can don the top hat and […]

Setting sail on a non-executive director portfolio career is like venturing into uncharted waters. As you navigate this exciting journey, one crucial aspect that could either make or break your success is your personal branding. While it may be tempting to go for something quirky or funny, choosing a silly name for your website or […]

It’s an age-old adage: never fight with someone bigger than you or sue someone richer than you. It’s a simple piece of advice, yet one that many hard-nosed entrepreneurs and business owners often overlook in their relentless pursuit of success. It is, perhaps, for this very reason that this wisdom is usually hard-won. When your […]

Title: “The Exalted ‘Chief’ of Titles: The Hilarious Minefield of Senior Executive Recruitment” Every year in the UK, we bear witness to the mystifying migration of the ‘chief’, ‘director’, or ‘VP’. They soar from LinkedIn profile to LinkedIn profile, apparently changing hosts faster than a flitting sparrow. Today, I want to address this peculiar phenomenon: […]

In the vast and often unpredictable business ocean, finding the right path to success can be a daunting task. While no single person can eliminate all challenges, the presence of a non-executive can prove to be a valuable compass and map. These seasoned professionals, with their wealth of experience and extensive network of contacts, possess […]

The Rise and Demise of the Fearless Founders No one will ever dispute the genius of a founder. They are the visionaries, the trailblazers, the veritable champions of innovation who turn an abstract idea into a tangible, revenue-generating entity. These are the people who fill our business lore, from Steve Jobs to Elon Musk. They […]

In the rapidly evolving digital landscape, emergent technologies such as Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Large Language Learning Models (LLMs), notably ChatGPT, have not yet fully penetrated boardroom agendas, a situation that necessitates immediate attention. Mark Freebairn, our Head of CFO and Board Practice, provides a comprehensive assessment of the potential risks and implications associated […]

Private equity firms that specialise in the mid-market, usually defined as companies with an enterprise value between £50 million and £500 million, often find the most valuable opportunities and returns. This is attributed to numerous factors that make the VNXD Operator Network a significant asset for these firms. One key advantage of the mid-market for […]

In the fast-paced world of business, the mantra is simple: get sh*t done. This statement is not just a catchy phrase; it is the fundamental essence of business operations. However, staying on top of tasks while ensuring strategic alignment with long-term goals is easier said than done. This is where the unsung heroes of boardrooms, […]

If you’ve ever tried to scale a business, you’ll know it’s a bit like climbing Mount Everest without the right equipment – risky, challenging, and downright cold at times. That’s where our un-sung heroes come into play. Non-executive directors bring a wealth of experience, insights, and much-needed external perspective, thereby ensuring the company does not […]

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.

Staying relevant as a non-executive director

As the business world becomes increasingly digital and competitive, having a compelling and keyword-enriched profile is crucial for those seeking any role, particularly non-executive director positions. create This article explores the importance of keywords in relation to Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and how they can make a difference in your job search. Understanding Applicant Tracking […]

Businesses often hesitate to invite non-executive directors to join their board, as they find themselves sinking in the quicksand of doubt and uncertainty. This reluctance stems from the murky waters of Ignorance. At first glance, it might seem ironic to associate entrepreneurs with doubt. After all, they possess the vision and courage—two indispensable entrepreneurial traits—to […]

As an experienced Finance Director, your expertise extends beyond just crunching numbers and analysing financial metrics. Contrary to popular belief, not all finance directors are boring “numbers nerds” – some of them even have a sense of humour! So, why should founders and businesses consider hiring an ex-finance director as a non-executive director? Here are […]

According to the Guardian, UK startups are facing a rather uncomfortable game of “musical chairs” when it comes to securing funding and investors. A ‘lost generation’ of small businesses is emerging from the cost of living crisis, and some businesses are having a harder time wooing talent or exporting digital services to the EU post […]

Taking on a non-executive director role at another business can be an excellent career move for fast-rising or senior executives looking to broaden their experience. However, the issue of “silent non-executives” is prevalent in many boardrooms. This phenomenon is not simply a result of poor executive search processes, but rather a complex issue that highlights […]

In today’s fast-paced business world, boards face the challenge of keeping up with technological changes and market disruptions. It can be difficult for them to stay relevant and make meaningful contributions to their company’s strategy without continually refreshing their knowledge and experience. This is why boards need to seek out directors who can bring cutting-edge […]

Ah, the age-old question: how can you tell the difference between a real guru and a fake one? Unfortunately, the answer isn’t always clear-cut. That said, there are some tell-tale signs that you should be wary of anyone who claims to have a fountain of knowledge and is selling access to it. You know the […]

In the world of private business, it can be easy to get stuck in a rut. Entrepreneurs and business owners often pour their hearts and souls into their companies, developing deep and personal relationships with their businesses. While this level of dedication is admirable, it can also lead to an insular perspective that is resistant […]

Build your first non-executive director career

Well folks, buckle up, because I’m about to drop some truth bombs on why you’ll never get your hands on a non-executive director job. Despite it being the equivalent of the golden ticket in the corporate world, with prestige, fame, and a fat paycheque, it’s not as easy to grab as you think. So sit […]

Professional development is not just for undergrads, it’s for everyone! Especially non-executives who think they have it all figured out. Think again! Just like a plant needs water, non-executives need professional development to grow. Here’s why professional development is crucial for non-executives: it keeps them up to date with the latest trends and technologies. Imagine […]

The business owner who tries to control every aspect of their business is like a gardener who tries to control every aspect of their garden. The gardener may think that by constantly tending to every plant and pulling every weed, they will create the perfect garden. However, in trying to control everything, they can actually […]

Networking can be an important aspect of fundraising for a company. Building relationships with potential investors and industry professionals can provide valuable insights and connections that can help you in your fundraising efforts. Networking can also help you identify potential investors who may be interested in your company, and it can help you build credibility […]

First of all, “Congratulations” on reaching the MVP (minimum viable product) stage with your startup! This is an exciting time as you are likely on the verge of launching your product or service to the market and beginning to generate revenue. There are a few key things to consider as you move forward with your […]

Non-executives can network in much the same way as other professionals. Some effective strategies for networking as a non-executive include attending industry events, joining professional organisations, reaching out to potential connections via networks like Virtualnonexecs.com, email or LinkedIn, offering value to others, and following up regularly to maintain relationships. Another effective way for non-executives to […]

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

In movies, there are the stars and there are the supporting actors. Journeys, are best experienced with friends or family; at least that’s my take on it. But we don’t only experience journeys in our personal lives, we experience them in our professional and business lives, too.  Behind every successful person is a group of […]

Unless you’ve got special powers, it’s highly likely that you are unable to see around corners!  But wouldn’t that power be a great skill to possess, especially in business? In today’s business landscape, many of the fastest growing privately owned businesses have found a way to do just this – to look around corners!   How […]

Making the step up! For many non-executives who have been around the block a few times, it may appeal to become a chair.  Whilst many enjoy the role, it is true that this is not always an obvious move and it simply will not work for many. There are many reasons that a non-executive director […]

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

Imagine spending all that time on your CV to receive rejection after rejection.  Now compound that with the fact that non-executive director jobs and other fractional director roles are some of the most applied for roles and you face a daunting prospect and little no chance of finding a role through applying. But there are […]

It’s a conundrum. How to expand your portfolio career when you don’t currently have a portfolio of clients or even any portfolio work to show.  But there is a way. First of all, remember that just because you don’t have a traditional set of clients doesn’t mean you don’t have a portfolio of experience.  Giving […]

Think of finding your first non-executive director role as being a process – similar to starting out in your early career when networking was so important. Aspiring (as well as established) non-executives should use a number of options for professional networking; nowadays, the online option is usually the easiest with in-person still being a tried […]

We all know that networking is essential for most business professionals.  It is also a key skill that many successful entrepreneurs have fine tuned over many years and this has helped them build world class businesses.  In many instances it has also helped raise billions in venture capital and other financing rounds.  Where most people […]

Remember this: quality trumps quantity every time. So how did we get to the point where some CEOs and business leaders believe that networking is about having the most connections, the most views, the most likes, these days? Only by focusing on quality connections, the ones that actually enhance our professional lives will we flourish as people […]

Why do businesses and (some) professional advisors not get it?  Connecting and meeting are two completely separate terms and yet we seem to believe that “having thousands of connections” is akin to being connected.  Well, it is, but not really! It is vitally important that we differentiate between meeting and connecting. Whilst we undoubtedly use […]

The sharing economy (or “shareconomy”) is an economic model defined as Peer-to-Peer (P2P) based activity of acquiring, providing, or sharing access to goods and services that is often facilitated by a community-based online platform. It was the inspiration for the creation of Virtualnonexecs.com. For thousands of years, communities have shared assets, but the dawn of the […]

Great!  You’ve found your non-executive director role but now what?  Below are “hints and tips” gathered from speaking with 1000s of established non-executive directors over 20 years. 1. Create your own plan Most C-Level Board Directors will know that one of the most important preparations you can make is to create your work plan. Focusing […]

In a recent survey of what makes us typically British, the number one feature was talking about the weather. We all do it. “Mornin’. Bit nippy today, eh?” “Let’s hope this sun’s here to stay!” “Aye, but you should’ve seen the snow when I were a lad!” Non-executives are no different – only when they […]

Other than losing your virginity, there’s not many things you’ll only do once.  Selling your business is, perhaps one of them! OK, I caught your attention with the rather childish opener! But seriously, selling a business is a major decision and one that can be daunting.  But there is help out there and not just […]

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

Start-ups!  Who needs um, aye? Don’t you find it funny that it is only on rare occasions we hear of start up failures but almost every day we hear of start ups selling for eye watering sums of money?  Almost every business publication leads with headlines of founders “cashing out” for mega bucks!  But what […]

IF YOU’RE EVER IN THE RAT BUSINESS… ‘Come in!’’ — the Mayor cried, looking bigger And in did come the strangest figure! His queer long coat from heel to head Was half of yellow and half of red And he himself was tall and thin, With sharp blue eyes, each like a pin Whether you’re […]

“Boring as rat sh*t”.  That’s how one CEO explained Board meetings to me, some years ago.  Charming.  But board meetings shouldn’t be perceived as a negative part of running your businesses. As a corporate governance requirement, here are a few ways you can get the maximum from your Board meetings for you and your fellow […]

Advice for entrepreneurs in start up businesses.

If you can count on the fingers of one foot the number of leads you have had from Linkedin, then you are missing a trick or five! In this article I will explore the simplest ways for non-executive directors and others to quickly maximise the chances of success on LinkedIn. What is in it for […]

How does IR35 impact NEDs and can you operate through your own limited company? As a Non-Executive Director (NED), by very definition, you are an expert in your area.  Invariably you will be asked to take on consultancy work, be that at the organisation you perform your Non-Exec duties or within another organisation.  In this […]

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

I have sat on numerous boards over the past ten years and have dealt with thousands of non-executive directors; some I admire greatly. Whenever I run a seminar or am interviewed by media companies on “what makes a great non-executive director?” I often have different answers as my view changes over time but here are […]

There are not many people on the planet as successful as Peter Thiel. He’s made £billions from various tech companies and follow on investments. When it comes to business, he’s no mug. Here is his Top Ten tips on being successful. Our thoughts follow the vieo below: Without any doubt, this stems from the CEO […]

It often starts and ends with “strategy” when it comes to the role of a non-executive director when reviewing the composition of a Board of Directors.  Over the last fifteen years in the Non-Exec space, the critical priority for boards has been aligning talent with the strategy of the company; get this wrong and it […]

‘Oh brave new world, that has such people in it!’ Shakespeare, who wrote the above line in his play The Tempest, would have perfectly understood the simple truth in the saying Omnia mutantur nos et mutamur in illis. After all, Latin was an essential part of his schooling. Confused? OK. Let me explain. Everyone who […]

Over the years I have interviewed 100s of CEOs, CFOs and Board Members and in the past ten years, mostly Non-Executive Directors. It is interesting to follow the C-Level candidate into the new word of non-executive directorship and I’ve made lots of notes on how the most successful transition into their external Board roles. Many […]

At one time, when coal miners needed to test the quality of air deep underground, they employed canaries, who were more susceptible to the presence of toxic gases than humans. When a canary stopped singing, it was a sure sign of danger ahead. That was all well and good in coal mining [unless of course […]

“Denial,” said Mark Twain, “ain’t just a river in Egypt.” Mark Twain wasn’t talking specifically about start-up companies, or companies in general, but his words ring true, nevertheless. Many companies think they can get along quite nicely without the need for outside directors. Why bring ’em in when we can make all the right decisions […]

Let’s be honest, who needs Non-Execs? All right, they might bring a clear-eyed detachment to some of the more difficult decisions you’ll have to make, because they’re seeing the issues with a fresh and new perspective. But if I want clear-eyed, new perspectives I can go to an optician’s. See? And please don’t come out […]

There was a director called Joe Who wanted his business to grow. Someone said, ‘N.E.Ds Used to cost us big fees But it ain’t necessarily so!’ There is still a place for headhunters – recruiters – to help fill executive positions, but for non-executive directorships, there are alternative ways for companies to make the right […]

Imagine your television breaks down. Or your combi-boiler? Or your computer? Where do you look for someone to fix things? Well, there are several places to go – foremost of which are a plethora of “all things to all men” directory sites like the (now online version of…) Yellow Pages. Remember that big yellow book? […]

The Game’s Afoot! Oscar Wilde once said, “It is a very sad thing that nowadays there is so little useless information.” He was, of course, speaking with his usual irony, but in this data-rich age his words have never rung truer. Every contact your company makes with the consumer, even on the most minuscule level, […]

Anyone Entrepreneurs Suffering From Whatifitis? Companies often cast a suspicious eye on the idea of bringing onto the board non-executive directors. This fear and wariness develops because of exposure to an insidious and debilitating disorder: Ignorance. OK, it seems somewhat ironic, accusing an entrepreneur of fear. Someone with the vision and the courage [two essential […]

The days of free lunches, sleepy afternoons in a comfortable board room chair and money for nothin are long gone! Taking a role as a non-executive director isn;t a breeze and for those who think it’s a pocket money job are mistaken; it brings with it huge responsibilities. You’ve been brought onto the board to […]

Accountants, love um or hate um are “plugged in”. What do I mean by “plugged in”? Well, I don’t mean they’re attached to a power socket! Accountants are often the first port of call for most entrepreneurs – tax headache, audit requirement, help recruiting a finance director into their business – the list goes on. […]

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