How to Find a Board Member or Executive Director

A board member is an important job that entails serving as an official fiduciary of the organization. A board’s primary roles are oversight, governance and accountability, as well as providing a clear and concise strategic direction. Board service is a unique chance to contribute to an important cause in your community and has a profound influence on individuals and organisations.

In a publicly held company, the board represents the owners (shareholders or stockholders) and sets policy that determines issues such as whether or not to pay dividends, the size of the dividend, stock options granted, and hiring/firing/compensation of upper management. In practice, however it is the upper management and not the board who have most of the practical power and the directors are typically following the management’s advice and approving them.

When choosing the members of your board, it is crucial that you select candidates who meet the required qualifications, along with the their character and the experience needed for the role. Competence is the ability to grasp complex issues and make smart decisions. Character is a reflection on your organization’s values. The way you select members that reflect these values will reflect what your organization stands.

Your network is a great way to start looking for a candidate. Ask a trusted member of your network or community whether they have connections to the executive director or board. Introduce yourself and explain why you’d like to be on the board. Also inform them of your experience in attending meetings and being prepared.

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