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THE Korn/Ferry INSTITUTE
They articulate complex ideas clearly and command respect when they speak, but transfer knowledge to colleagues in a congenial manner. They are good listeners; they know when to contribute a thought and when to keep quiet. They absorb information quickly and ask the right questions. Breadth of experience. Successful NEDs have a breadth of experience that allows them to advise on a range of commercial issues. A wellrounded career facilitates intelligent and strategic advice “They have a broad/deep reservoir of knowledge and skills accrued during a in the boardroom, irrespective wide business career. We like of whether a NED has directors who have had experience of specific experience in the area things going wrong. When you’ve under consideration. A robust gone through difficult times, you have commercial and political profound learnings through those awareness—alongside skill and experiences.” perspective—is necessary in order to give dispassionate and independent advice.
- Steven Marshall, Chairman, Balfour Beatty and Wincanton
Among the diverse experiences that serve NEDs well is having ridden out challenging situations.