Governance Watch
‘Governance Watch’ is the podcast from the news and intelligence resource, Board Agenda, which immerses its listeners in the intricate world of corporate governance and the burning issues confronting boards and leadership teams today.
The magazine style show is hosted by Board Agenda's editorial team and includes interviews with guests including board members and C-suite executives from across industry, governance leaders and the investor community.
Each episode provides a wealth of knowledge and strategic insights to navigate the complexities of leading and governing companies in the modern business landscape.
Governance Watch is for informed opinion, discussion, and enlightenment as to how organisations are being governed. We invite you to join us as we explore the leadership of business.
Governance Watch
Rewiring the Board: Rethinking the Role of Non Executive Directors
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Governance Watch explores whether the traditional model of the NED is still fit for purpose in a faster, more complex world. Host Gavin Hinks is joined by Baroness Natalie Evans, chair of the Institute of Directors commission behind a major new report, and Professor Irene-Marie Esser of the University of Glasgow, to unpack why boards now need 'rewiring' beyond the post-Higgs era. They argue that independence should mean more than avoiding conflicts of interest, it must also include independence of mind to counter groupthink, strengthen challenge, and improve governance in practice. The conversation covers why conservative recruitment and over-reliance on traditional pipelines can leave boards under-skilled for today’s risks (from technology and cyber to geopolitics and sustainability), and why NEDs may need deeper engagement with the organisation, better information flows, and stronger support to add strategic value. With 'curiosity' as the standout call to action, the episode offers a practical blueprint for board leaders looking to improve effectiveness, culture, and long-term decision-making.