Through my company’s Corporate Partnership with WB Directors, I was able to access a range of their brilliant resources that helped me shape a purposeful and impactful board career. One of the most valuable was the ‘Elevating Your NED Brand’ Masterclass, which gave me a clear framework for approaching my NED campaign and identifying where I could add the most value.

My first NED role came via a personal connection, joining the board of Reef, a digital disruptor. My background in engaging with large organisations highlighted my value to their mission. My board journey further led me to become an External Governor at the University of Portsmouth, where I am proud to be an alumnus. The university was looking for individuals with expertise in digital skills, which was a great match for my experience. To prepare for this role, I found the Education Sector Insights on WB Directors’ Resource Centre extremely useful and benefited immensely from a 1-on-1 session with Julie Ashworth, which equipped me with insights crucial for my interview.

I soon secured a position as an independent Board Advisor for the disability charity Scope, focusing on AI and cybersecurity. WB Directors’ resources on navigating the charity sector gave me helpful context for navigating this space. Sitting on an Audit and Risk committee environment provides me with hands-on experience in good governance while enabling me to contribute meaningfully to an organisation dedicated to building a better society.

Most recently, I secured my first paid NED role at Raven Housing Trust, which was interested in a non-sector-based director experienced in Digital Transformation, particularly in how AI and data science can improve customer service. Again, WB Directors’ insights – this time into Housing Associations – provided valuable context and insight into the structure and challenges of these types of organisations, which was particularly important as a non-sector director looking to balance a knowledge of the challenges with an external perspective.

Across all my roles, the thread that connects them is a deep interest in how technology and artificial intelligence can shape a better future. I’ve focused on opportunities where I can apply that passion for social impact through good governance.

I am grateful to my company for having a Corporate Partnership with WB Directors, as without it, I wouldn’t have had access to the tools and guidance that helped me launch and grow my board career.

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