In this blog, we’re offering four helpful tips on how to approach it - drawing on the experience and insights from Pender & Howe partners Glenn Lesko and Céline Chabée and consultant Michelle Moore.
1. Stand out by leveraging governance training programs
Governance training programs can provide a huge boost to your credibility when applying for a board role, as they demonstrate your commitment to understanding the legal and strategic responsibilities of board members.
For Glenn Lesko, the ICD.D program (Institute of Corporate Directors) is highly recommended. It's a well-regarded course that equips participants with foundational governance knowledge. Even if you haven’t completed the program yet, enrolling sends a signal to boards that you are committed to professional development in governance, which can set you apart from other candidates.
Céline Chabée highlights that the ICD.D designation is widely recognized as the gold standard in governance training, offering both a powerful network and a well-established benchmark in governance practices. However, it can require significant time and financial commitment. For those who may face these constraints, a more gradual and focused approach - such as the ECBG (Excellence in Canadian Board Governance) program supported by P&H, developed by Women in Bio (WIB) in partnership with the Rotman School of Management - can serve as a practical and strategic first stepping stone with an industry-specific focus.
These programs not only build essential board skills - such as fiduciary responsibility, ethical decision-making, and risk oversight - but also connect participants with a strong network of governance professionals and alumni, invaluable for those seeking board opportunities.