How to Build a Successful Board Career

For many senior executives, however, the path to a successful board career remains unclear. ‘Building a Successful Board Career’, written by Odgers’ Damian Ringwood, offers a practical, globally relevant roadmap for those looking to create, launch and accelerate a rewarding portfolio career at board level. 

Today's Boardroom Realities 

The relevance of building a board career has never been greater. Today’s boards face an ever-changing environment marked by increased complexity, heightened stakeholder expectations, and the need for diverse, independent perspectives. NEDs and INEDs are now pivotal in ensuring robust governance, strategic oversight, and risk management. Our experience shows that organisations are actively seeking board members with expertise in areas such as technology, ESG, and global markets.  

The demand for directors who can navigate digital transformation, regulatory shifts, and sustainability challenges is at an all-time high. Board roles are no longer reserved for those at the end of their executive careers; they are a strategic move for leaders who want to expand their influence, diversify their careers, and make a lasting impact.  

Drawing on years of board-level advisory experience, Damian identified a gap in the market: while governance training is widely available, there is little guidance on the ‘black art’ of building a board career.

Through hundreds of conversations with experienced INEDs and aspiring board members, he distilled the real-world lessons, challenges and strategies that underpin successful board appointments. The result is a book that is both structured and accessible, designed to demystify the process for executives at every stage of their journey. 

At the heart of ‘Building a Successful Board Career’ is an eight-step framework, divided into three distinct phases: 

Phase A: Create your INED unique selling points.  

Phase B: Launch your INED career. 

Phase C: Accelerate your board career. 

Each step is supported by practical advice, real-world examples and actionable insights. Damian’s approach is deliberately broad-based, ensuring the principles apply across geographies and sectors. 

Charting the Course to Board Achievement  

One of the book’s key strengths is its focus on the complex and often challenging realities of board career-building. Many aspiring INEDs, as Damian notes, tend to underestimate the significant challenges associated with securing their very first appointment on a board.  

The journey begins with completing a governance course, which, while valuable, is merely the starting point in a much larger process. Building a credible board profile is a multifaceted endeavour that requires careful consideration and strategic planning, it involves not only highlighting relevant skills and experiences but also demonstrating a clear understanding of governance principles and practices.  

In addition to these foundational elements, cultivating a robust network of advocates is essential for success in this competitive field. This network may include mentors, industry peers, and established board members who can provide guidance, support, and potentially facilitate introductions to board opportunities.  

The book effectively addresses common misconceptions that many aspiring INEDs hold, such as the belief that simply having the right qualifications will lead to board appointments. Instead, it provides a realistic view of the considerable time, effort, and strategic thinking that are required to navigate this landscape successfully. By emphasising these aspects, Damian equips readers with a more comprehensive understanding of what it truly takes to build a successful board career. 

Building a Successful Board Career offers value for experienced board members seeking to expand their portfolio, as well as executives considering a transition from operational roles. Its global perspective means the advice is relevant whether you are in the UK, US, Ireland, Australia or beyond. The emphasis on transferable skills, personal branding and long-term planning makes it a valuable resource for anyone considering a board career. 

Enhancing Board Effectiveness for Sustainable Growth 

Odgers partner with boards to help ensure their composition, culture, and skills are aligned with long-term strategy. By combining thoughtful executive search with board evaluation and governance advisory, we support clients in identifying opportunities, addressing gaps, and strengthening overall effectiveness. Our aim is to add genuine value—helping boards navigate evolving challenges and deliver sustainable impact. 

If you are ready to take the next step in your board career – or simply want to understand what it takes to succeed at board level – Damian Ringwood’s Building a Successful Board Career is an essential read.  

Discover more and purchase your copy here: Building A Successful Board Career - Damian Ringwood

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