Portfolio Chair in PE backed services and software businesses | Interim Executive leading complex transformation and M&A integrations. Writer, panelist, and podcaster on Boards, Transformation and M&A deals.
Great to attend the Non-Executive Director Awards yesterday at Claridge's. The lifetime achievement award went to Sir Nigel Rudd who did a great speech on what being a good chair means (right strategy and CEO), some funny anecdotes on AGMs and Committee meetings but perhaps most profoundly talked about always feeling like an outsider. Being from Derby (nothing wrong with that!), not particularly enjoying networking and feeling Davos is best for skiing. I think there is something powerful about being on the outside. An outsider is not a strange person without friends. Instead, they are someone who challenges accepted values and wisdom. An insider adopts the accepted standards, an outsider challenges and changes those standards. An outsider is more likely to be more curious, insightful, questioning and healthily suspicious so the board does not become an echo chamber. An outsider does not interfere in management’s role but equally should not be a step removed the often termed ‘nose not hands in the tent’ is the balance to aim for. Outsiders have a unique advantage in framing issues by drawing on a range of experiences. They are also more likely to be attune to signals of wider cultural failings. Being an outsider sounds like a pretty good advantage to being a NED to me. Congratulations to all who made the event a huge success. #governance #boardmembers
Nivedita Candade
5mo
Love the perspective on the insider/outsider!
Huw Thomas
5mo
The insider/outsider mindset is bang on. Great post, thanks Karen!
Kirsta Anderson
5mo
Thanks Karen - also a great reminder that everyone can feel like an outsider, even someone like Sir Nigel Rudd who probably looks like the ultimate insider to most people.
Mark Bland
5mo
The outsider point is so true.
I coach senior leaders at high stakes moments to lead nuanced and impactful change I Leadership & Career Coach I Behaviour Change Expert
5moLove this perspective Karen and I see the value this creates. My reflection is I act as a ‘besider’. As an Executive Coach I’m not an insider, but I’m not quite an outsider either. I’m bringing external perspective and challenge while also creating a sense of being ‘with’ and alongside the Executive I’m coaching. A thoughtful prompt today, thank you!