Welcome and Introductions

Includes opening remarks by our speakers, roundtable introductions to facilitate networking, and an introduction of the day’s agenda and training objectives.

The Evolving Role of Non-Executive Directors

This module trains attendees in understanding the evolving role of non-executive directors. Key points include the changing landscape of corporate governance, compliance & legal obligations; the role of the board and the responsibilities of non-executive directors; the challenges and opportunies of NED roles; best practices for communication in and out of the boardroom; and how NEDs should foster relationships with executive management.

Environmental, Social, and Governance Training

This module teaches why environmental, social, and governance (ESG) matters. It covers greenwashing, greenhushing & mintwashing; supply chain issues and the importance of due diligence; strategies for risk management and effective oversight; promoting ethical behaviour and a positive organisational culture; and the key questions stakeholders will ask around ESG.

IP, Branding & Non-Tangible Assets

This module covers the importance of protecting & respecting intellectual property. It includes an introduction to IP rights; an outline of how IP is infringed online; how AI developments affect IP; the role of NEDs in IP protection; the key questions auditors, aquirers and investors will ask about IP; and secrets of the trade from our IP and cybersecurity experts.

Financial Acumen for NEDs

This module seeks to improve the financial acumen of potential NEDs. The training includes enhancing financial literacy and understanding key financial statements; analysing financial indicators to assess an organisation's performance and financial health; how to engage with financial experts and ask relevant questions in board discussion; understanding the role of the auditor; and how to manage solvency and difficult financial discussions.

Data, Cybersecurity & Data Breaches

This module informs participants about the importance of cybersecurity and proper data management. It includes an understanding of GDPR and data security obligations; how FOI and EIR regimes work; how to understand threat actors and what companies can do to be more resilient to cyber attacks; how to deal with ransomware; strategies for NEDs during a data breach; criminal offenses under the Data Protection Act 2018; and the growing concentration on director and officer liability.

PR, Public Affairs & Crisis Management

This module educates attendees on the key aspects of public relations. It covers the basics of PR in positive and negative situations; the role of non-executive directors in a PR crisis and how to plan for one; understanding news cycles, social media, and news vacuums in a crisis; strategies to reduce regulatory impact; managing suppliers in a crisis; and crisis insurance.

Reflection and Action Planning

This module caps off the Foundation Course by encouraging reflection and planning for the future. Participants learn how to grow as non-executive directors and find their perfect role; recognise the role of mentoring and the importance of LinkedIn; reflect on key takeaways from the Foundation Course and identify actionable steps to apply them in their board roles; and outline their career goals. The session is concluded with a Q&A session and closing remarks from our speakers.