What motivated you to enrol in the NEDA Training and Certification Programme?

After years of serving as an advisory board member and NED, I decided to build a more solid, formal foundation, drawing on practical experience.

What specific skills, gaps, or challenges were you hoping to address by taking this course?

It is important to be aligned with the most recent regulations and the modern understanding of the role and responsibilities, as well as the liability of NED, to stay relevant and competitive. Also, I wanted to learn from the best practices in handling complex issues in NED work.

How did the programme change or enhance your understanding of what it means to operate at board level?

It mainly confirmed what I learned from my practical experience. Yet, I gained a much better understanding of some important formal practices that I had not encountered earlier. Also, the practical cases and peer learning broadened my understanding of the NED role.

Did the course shift your mindset about your readiness or potential to contribute at board level? If so, how?

I understood I need to learn more about the NED role. Great that we were given lots of materials and also had a chance to certify. At the same time, I see this as an opportunity to grow professionally and start contributing to boards at a new level.

After completing the programme, how has your confidence changed regarding contributing at board level?

I received strong support, which made me feel confident that my experience and expertise can be put to good use by companies looking for a NED.

What stood out to you about the instructors or the way the content was delivered?

You always want to learn from the best. And the training provided a great opportunity for this. It was very well balanced between theory and practice, and the rather complicated content was delivered perfectly. I liked the format very much, its intensity and focus.

What would you say to someone considering signing up for this programme but unsure if it's right for them?

Worth every moment of it. Just try to stay focused and contribute - the more you interact, the more you learn.

What is your one key takeaway from the course?

One of the key findings is the importance of understanding what you bring to the board. I reflected on that and now have a clearer understanding of what I can offer a board to add value.

As a BCS member you received discounted access to the course. How did this membership benefit influence your decision to enrol, and what would you say to others about the value of joining BCS before taking the programme?

As a BCS Fellow, I enjoyed the discount. But also the fact that BCS vetted the training was very important to me. I often rely on BCS's selection of events, experts, and providers when looking at opportunities to learn and grow professionally. Some of the BCS internal events and working groups are probably the most valuable source of professional knowledge, discussions, and networking. Proud to be with BCS!