Chairs
With thanks to some of the many Chairs who have participated in
Professional Boards Forum events.
"Networking is part and parcel for NEDs but The Professional Boards Forum is more than a network. It has structure, focus and purpose and adds value in its own right. Above all PBF reinforces the message that it is still ‘merit first’.”
Sir Roger Carr, former Chair, BAE Systems plc
“As the pandemic continues it has never been more important for all of us to keep making connections, albeit digitally. The Professional Boards Forum and its network is a wonderful way of helping do just that, and so supporting talented women to achieve their goals.”
Robert Swannell, former Chair, UK Government Investments
“It was an excellent event and I was also very impressed with the diversity of the women.”
Ruth Cairnie, Chair, Babcock International plc
“My advice to PBF participants is to embark on an NED career early and
before you complete your executive career. Reaching the boardroom will take time, so be patient and resilient, and turn
yourself into your own project."
Jasmine Whitbread, Chair,
Travis Perkins plc
“PBF enables great talent to immediately stand out and collaborate directly with experienced board Chairpersons. I am convinced it will help drive change and a rethink of the way corporations recruit Non-Executive directors.”
Urs Rohner, Chairman, Credit Suisse Group AG
"I'm delighted once again to attend the Professional Boards Forum. Every time I come, I enjoy the opportunity to meet people from all over the world, and the candidates continue to get stronger, are really interesting, and have lots to contribute."
Paul Drechsler, former Chair, London First
“A good NED should have broad experience, courage, be cool, calm and objective, a good listener and clear
communicator, and be prepared to be a team player – and such personal characteristics can be gained in many
environments outside the public company sphere.”
Sir Douglas Flint, Chairman, Standard Life Aberdeen plc
“As a potential NED looking to get noticed, attending a PBF event is a good place to start. Be clear on your experience
and what you bring to the table – the opportunities are there and business needs to understand that our society at large requires diverse boards.”
Sir Mike Rake, Chairman, Phoenix Global
Resources plc
“Having been a PBF candidate myself I remember finding this experience one of the most educational programmes on practical board responsibilities, discussion and governance. I walked away with confidence in my ability to add value and an expanded network. Coming back as a Chair was rewarding, to pay it forward. Even in virtual form, I can see amazing candidates and fantastic learnings coming out of this programme.”
Terri Duhon, Independent NED, Rathbone Brothers plc
“It was a pleasure to participate and get to know several high-calibre women. I have been contacted by a couple who I will talk to in the next few days. I look forward to participating again in future.”
Michiel Jaski, Board member,
AkzoNobel NV
“It was a great honour, pleasure and privilege to participate at PBF. It is an outstanding forum for encouraging talent. I have already been contacted by several of the attendees and shall do my best to give my attention, feedback and support.”
Michael Cole-Fontayn, Chairman, Association for Financial Markets in Europe
“One of the most interesting board events in Europe. It provides you with the unique opportunity to meet a high number of very capable female board-member candidates.”
Alexandre Zeller, former Chairman,
SIX Group