Breaking boardroom barriers: navigating your NED journey

March 13, 2025

In celebration of International Women’s Day 2025, The SR Group hosted a webinar to discuss the challenges and starting point for women seeking Non-Executive Director (NED) appointments. Hosted by Managing Director, Sarah Ingwersen, we were joined by three NED panellists who shared their insights, journey and experiences on how best to obtain a NED position: Tara Ricks, Joanna Bonnett & Rachel Tranter.

The Current Landscape

The webinar began with an overview of the progress made in gender diversity within the FTSE 350. According to the FTSE Women Leaders Review 2025, female NEDs now make up nearly 50% of these boards, a substantial increase from just 9% in 2011. This positive trend indicates that efforts to promote gender equality are gaining traction, but challenges remain.

Personal Journeys to NED Roles

The panellists shared their personal experiences and career paths that led them to NED positions. One panellist mentioned that their journey wasn’t a conscious decision at first but evolved naturally through interactions with board members and professional bodies. Another highlighted the importance of recognising pivotal moments and key opportunities that shape one’s path to a NED role. They advised leveraging executive experience, networking and being visible at industry events.

Overcoming Challenges

The panellists discussed the unique challenges women face in obtaining NED roles. Building a network was identified as crucial, with one panellist sharing their experience of actively attending networking events and engaging with professional communities. Another emphasised the importance of confidence and preparation, advising women to own their space, speak with authority and thoroughly understand board packs.

Balancing Executive and NED Roles

Balancing a demanding executive career with NED responsibilities was another key topic. Practical advice included meticulous calendar management, prioritising commitments and ensuring transparency with employers about outside work commitments. The importance of aligning one’s executive role with NED responsibilities was highlighted, with panellists sharing their experiences of managing conflicts and stepping back from roles when necessary.

Diversity and Its Impact

The importance of diversity in the boardroom was underscored, with panellists agreeing that a diverse board brings a wider range of perspectives, enhances decision-making and drives better business performance. Studies have shown that companies with diverse boards outperform those with less diversity in profitability and innovation. Diversity also fosters agility in responding to economic and geopolitical challenges and contributes to an inclusive workplace culture.

“A diverse board brings a wider range of perspectives, enhances decision-making and drives better business performance”

Practical Steps for Aspiring NEDs

For those aspiring to NED roles, the panellists provided practical advice:

Start early: Begin thinking about your NED journey once you achieve a certain level of seniority and have the expertise to add value
Network strategically: Cultivate a broad network, both within and outside your organisation. Engage with professional communities and industry events
Develop a board CV: Create a non-executive board CV that highlights your transferable skills, achievements, and leadership credentials
Seek mentorship and sponsorship: Find mentors and sponsors who can guide and support your career development
Consider Trustee roles: Gain governance experience through trustee positions in not-for-profit organisations as a stepping stone to corporate NED roles

In summary, aspiring female NEDs need to be resilient, confident and proactive in their journey. By leveraging networks, seeking mentorship and continuously developing their skills, women can break boardroom barriers and take their rightful place in leadership roles.