Useful resources/additional reading – Insights and Research

Financial Times Non-Executive Directors’ Club. Appears to be one of the most popular amongst communications leaders. Paid for membership club with benefits including networking with other non-executive directors, member events, access to expert knowledge and resources and access to NED roles. Offers good NED courses (see below). www.non-execs.com/

WOB (Women on Boards). As the name suggests, helps women make the right connections and career choices to get to the top within their own company or to take on a board or committee role as a non executive director, trustee or governor. Excellent advice, on line and on the phone. Free membership plus paid for option for more access. www.womenonboards.net

FT Non-Executive Directors Diploma. A post-graduate level qualification for current and aspiring non-executive directors. (www.fttoolkit.co.uk/NEDD)

IOD. Role of the Non-Executive Director. A one day course including practical advice and participation in interactive case studies (www.iod.com/developing/courses/list-of-courses/role-ofthe- non-executive-director)

WOB (Women on Boards). A range of different training and development courses including an excellent introductory seminar into NED roles (www.womenonboards.net)

Investor Relations Society. Offers an extensive professional development programme, with scheduled and bespoke courses available for those new to the financial markets as well as those with significant experience. All are designed to be practical in approach and include a contribution from a senior IR practitioner. Practical modules include ‘Demystifying company accounts and valuations’ (www.irs.org.uk/professional-development/course-programme). See www.irs.org.uk or contact John Gollifer, General Manager at john.gollifer@irs.org.uk for further details.

Finance Talking. Provides practical financial training for non-financial people, corporate communications, financial PR and Investor Relations. (www.financetalking.com).

Centre for Public Appointments. A free to access website by the Cabinet Office where you can search for all current appointments to the boards of a public body or advisory committee (publicappointments.cabinetoffice.gov.uk)

IOD. The Directors Handbook. A practical guide to assist those that run companies, including a blue-print for best boardroom practice. (www.iod.com/guidance/publications/the-directorshandbook)