Taking my own advice – part 2 – NXD and Charity Trustee roles. When I am coaching or mentoring senior leaders I am often asked about the value of taking on Non Executive Director or Charity Trustee roles.

This is not something to be undertaken lightly as you will be assuming legal responsibility for the sustainability of this organisation, so you must undertake thorough due diligence on all aspects: purpose, values, culture, executive team, fellow Board members and Chair, financial standing – the list goes on.

Despite this need for careful selection, such roles can be incredibly fulfilling and you will learn a great deal from operating at Board level in a different organisation, experience which you can hopefully apply in your Executive role. My key piece of advice? Choose an organisation which is a great fit for your own values and interests and where you feel you can make a difference – then no matter the time commitment or organisational challenges, you will always feel engaged and committed. For me, that’s Edinburgh International Book Festival – I chose wisely and feel privileged to be part of something so special. I’d love to hear what others feel about NXD or Charity Trustee roles in the comments: Sam Cooper-Gray, Jimmy Kelly, Dr Helen Wright, Alison McGregor or anyone else!

Posted in Articles, Four pieces of advice, drawn from my own experience and my coaching work