Abbie Walsh

What motivated you to become a NED at this time in your career?

I took some time post the pandemic to think about how I wanted to spend my energy and time over the next 10 years. I decided to look for a non-executive director role in order to contribute more with my skills and experience and also expand my own skills in the board environment.

I wanted to find a non exec director role that would allow me to build on my existing skills in customer experience and design and in which I could learn from others who have been in the role for a while. This is why the non exec role at GirlGuiding Trading was perfect for me, the team are a mix of existing and new board members. I’m learning a lot from the existing board members in a non judgemental and inspiring environment.

What advice would you give to aspiring non-executive directors?

In terms of making the decision to become a non-exec director, make sure you have enough time to commit to this and that it will be possible for you to weave it into your existing work commitments. Usually, it’s not a huge amount of time, but sometimes there is a need to dive in a bit more deeply, which can take longer.

It’s useful to understand what is expected of a non exec role – there are some legal expectations. Also, as non execs you’re there to challenge and advise, but not lead or direct, which can be a shift compared to your day to day.

Chat with other friends and colleagues who are already in non-exec roles for ideas and advice on which areas to look in. For some, a role in the not for profit sector is a good place to start, whereas others might be better suited to a commercial organisation. 

Jayesh Patel – Belong NED

What motivated you to become a NED at this time in your career?
I had reached a point in my career where chasing the next promotion or taking on more responsibility was not my main driver. I wanted to use the skills and experience I had acquired during 20 years working in finance to help an organisation with a social purpose. I also felt it was important in my career to widen my network outside of the corporate world and continue learning from people with different backgrounds

What one piece of advice would you give to aspiring NEDs
My advice would be to really think about differences between an Exec and Non-Exec role, especially in a not-for-profit environment. It is not for everyone, and I have personally had to invest time and effort to make that transition. Be really clear how you will make the transition and ask other Board members to support you.

Pearly Siffel – Trustee, Home-Start UK

What motivated you to become a non-executive director/trustee at this time?
I’ve been fortunate to work for a firm that has given me limitless opportunities to learn skills and gain experiences to navigate some of today’s most acute business challenges. I got to a point in my career where I felt compelled to look for an opportunity to share these capabilities and contribute to creating long-terms opportunities for organizations with causes close to my heart.

What advice would you give to aspiring non-executive directors?
Consider the capabilities you’ve acquired over the years, and how you could put them to work to create positive impact on the businesses where you live and work, and perhaps the community as well. The rewards will outweigh the effort and time you’ll commit!

Susan Moore – Richmond Fellowship NED

What motivated you to become a non-executive director/trustee at this time?
Coming out of lockdown I wanted to give something back and particularly within the field of health and addiction as we emerged from the pandemic.

Advice:
Make the most of your induction into your organisation and subsequent operational visits to try to get a better understanding of the challenges and opportunities.  I would recommend the role. It is hugely rewarding both personally and professionally. I have learnt a lot in a very short time and have really enjoyed using my skills and background working as part of a board for a great organisation.

John Rogers – Belong NED

What motivated you to become a non-executive director/trustee at this time?
Having worked for one company for the past 15 years,  I wanted to continue to grow and develop and I felt that a NED role (particularly one in a different sector),  would  provide me with a host of new insights and learning opportunities. I also wanted the chance to add value in organisations with a purpose that resonated with me.

What advice would you give to aspiring non-executive directors?
Think carefully about the skills and experience you have and try to target organisations or sectors where they might be most valued – perhaps because they are likely to be additive to the skills and experience of the existing board members or differentiate you from other candidates. Consider a wide range of sectors and be open to voluntary roles in smaller organisations for your first NED role to build your experience and learn from more seasoned Chairs and NEDs – it is very different from executive work!