Background

An effective board is critical to an organization’s success, as it provides strategic direction and oversight. Business owners, investors, shareholders, and regulatory bodies worldwide emphasize board composition, structure, and quality to ensure organizational stability. No financier or industry stakeholder wants to risk an ineffective board.

This course builds on CDC I, equipping participants with the knowledge of key factors and risks affecting board effectiveness. It also explores the relationship between business development and efficient board operations.

Additionally, this workshop serves as a mandatory continuous development program for chairmen and directors responsible for steering their organizations, ensuring they contribute meaningfully to board discussions and decisions.

Target Participants

This program is designed for:

• Chairmen and Managing Directors
• Executive and Non-Executive Directors
• Board members of public and private sector organizations
• Members of Governing Councils in strategic institutions
• Company Secretaries
• Managing Consultants and Principal Partners in professional service firms
• Executives with board-level responsibilities

As a continuation of Company Direction Course I (CDC I), this course is a mandatory director development program for CIoD members who have completed CDC I. Participants in this category must attend CDC II within 12 months of their CDC I graduation. Successful completion also supports members' eligibility for Fellow upgrade, provided other criteria are met.

Programme Objectives

By the end of this course, participants will:

• Analyze board dynamics and the factors that strengthen or weaken it.
• Understand how board composition, size, and diversity impact effectiveness.
• Define Directors' roles in business development.
• Identify business risks and integrate enterprise risk management for stronger governance.

Programme Contents

This course covers the following core topics:

• The Director and Board Dynamics – Understanding how board structure and interactions influence performance.
• Board Effectiveness – Best practices for an efficient and high-performing board.
• The Director’s Role in Business Development – Strategic involvement in organizational growth.
• Enterprise Risk Management – Identifying and mitigating risks for sustainable success.

Leadership for CEOs & Directors

Background

Strong board leadership is a critical driver of organizational value. While effective leadership fosters credibility, enhances performance, and ensures sustainability, weak board leadership can erode value, hinder growth, and compromise long-term success.

Today, stakeholders are increasingly focused on the quality of leadership provided by board directors, recognizing that “leadership is everything.” This is particularly important in a VUCA (Volatile, Uncertain, Complex, and Ambiguous) business environment, where directors must demonstrate exceptional leadership skills to navigate challenges and drive strategic success.

This course is designed to enhance board-level competencies, equipping participants with a high-level, strategic leadership perspective from the boardroom.

Target Participants

This programme is designed for:

• Chairmen, Managing Directors, Executive and Non-Executive Directors
• Board members of public and private sector organizations and institutions
• Members of Governing Councils of strategic organizations
• Company Secretaries and Managing Consultants/Principal Partners in professional service firms
• Executives holding board-level responsibilities

Programme Objectives

At the end of the course, participants will be able to:

• Examine the evolving relationship between the modern business environment and the director’s role.
• Redefine the competencies, skills, values, and personal attributes that directors must possess to provide impactful leadership.
• Analyze the leadership dynamics between the Board and the Executive Management, particularly in the context of shared and distinct responsibilities.
• Outline the strategic leadership roles of directors within and beyond the organization.

Programme Contents

• Understanding Directors’ Leadership Roles in a VUCA World
• Leadership Competencies for Directors in the Contemporary Business Environment
• Directors’ Leadership and the Executive Management Team
• Providing Leadership with a Bird’s-Eye View: Strategy, Control, Entrepreneurship, Business Development, Stakeholder Management

The CEO and the Board

Background

A key determinant of an organization's overall success is the strength of the relationship between the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and the Board of Directors. Even when roles and responsibilities are clearly defined, CEOs must navigate the nuances and dynamics of board interactions while adhering to both ethical guidelines and unwritten governance principles. Achieving organizational goals requires collaboration, accountability, and strategic alignment between the CEO and the Board.

This one-day intensive course is designed to equip CEOs with practical strategies to effectively manage board relations, earn trust and cooperation, and drive organizational success.

Target Participants

This programme is ideal for:

• CEOs (current and newly appointed)
• Executive Directors
• Board Members
• Top management staff preparing for future CEO roles

Programme Objectives

At the end of the course, participants will be able to:

• Define the role of the CEO in relation to board responsibilities.
• Develop strategies for crafting and communicating corporate strategy in alignment with the board.
• Apply leadership insights to drive organizational change and innovation.
• Understand and navigate the relationship dynamics between the CEO, Chairman, and board members.

Programme Contents

• The CEO’s Role in Relation to the Board’s Purpose and Objectives
• CEO’s Role in Defining and Communicating Corporate Strategy
• Leading and Motivating the Organization While Managing Change
• Understanding the CEO-Chairman Relationship and Board Dynamics

This course provides CEOs with practical insights and strategies to strengthen board relationships, enhance leadership effectiveness, and drive sustainable business success.

Risk Management and Governance Workshop for Directors

Background

Risk Management and Governance (RMG) is a holistic approach to managing volatility across all areas of an enterprise. It involves identifying, assessing, and mitigating key risks while making strategic risk-reward decisions. Leading organizations are increasingly adopting RMG frameworks to enhance strategic planning, strengthen risk governance, and maintain a competitive edge.

Given that boards play a critical role in risk oversight, directors must equip themselves with the necessary tools to effectively implement Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) strategies that drive value creation and stakeholder confidence.

This one-day workshop provides directors with practical insights and tools for effective board-level risk oversight.

Target Participants

This programme is ideal for:

• CEOs, CFOs, and Corporate Secretaries
• Senior Accountants and Top Executives responsible for risk oversight
• Regulators from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Nigerian Stock Exchange (NSE), and other supervisory bodies

Programme Objectives

At the end of the workshop, participants will be able to:

• Apply Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) principles to make informed risk-reward decisions.
• Understand the legal and regulatory frameworks governing risk management.
• Assess and define risk appetite and tolerance in line with organizational objectives.
• Strengthen risk culture at the board level by setting the right governance tone.

Programme Contents

• Value-Based ERM: Making Smarter Risk-Reward Decisions
• Governance Frameworks and Regulatory Compliance
• Risk Management, Risk Appetite, and Risk Tolerance
• Risk Culture, Board Leadership, and Assurance

Board’s Role in Strategy

Background

Setting the strategic direction of an organization is a core responsibility of the Board. However, strategy formulation, integration, execution, and evaluation require a collaborative effort between the Board and executive management. This global best practice ensures that Board members not only set strategic goals but also actively engage in critical oversight—raising key issues and guiding decisions throughout the strategy lifecycle.

This programme is designed to equip participants with a deep understanding of corporate strategy, enabling them to fulfill their strategic responsibilities effectively.

Target Participants

This programme is ideal for:

• Chairmen, Directors, and CEOs
• Executive and Non-Executive Directors
• Top Management Executives directly involved in strategy development and execution

Programme Objectives

At the end of the course, participants will be able to:

• Understand the Board’s role in shaping and overseeing corporate strategy.
• Identify the key characteristics of an effective strategy.
• Apply strategic methodologies to each stage of the strategy lifecycle.
• Assess and address weak or underperforming strategies.

Programme Contents

• The Board’s Role in Setting Organizational Strategy
• Characteristics of an Effective Strategy
• Tools for Strategy Formulation, Analysis, and Evaluation
• Identifying and Addressing Failing Strategies

Board’s Audit Committee and Control Environment

Background

As part of its governance and oversight responsibilities, the Board of Directors plays a critical role in establishing a strong control environment. This includes setting the tone at the top for internal controls, ethical values, integrity, transparency, and accountability. While the Board oversees the development and implementation of robust internal control systems, it must also demonstrate best practices in corporate governance.

The executive team is responsible for maintaining an effective system of internal controls, but Board members must possess a deep understanding of these systems to discharge their responsibilities professionally.

This course is designed to enhance participants’ knowledge of internal control frameworks and their role in shaping a strong control environment.

Target Participants

This programme is ideal for:

• Chairmen and Directors
• Audit Committee Members
• CEOs, Executive and Non-Executive Directors
• CFOs and Top Management Executives responsible for control and compliance

Programme Objectives

At the end of the course, participants will be able to:

• Understand the Board’s role in fostering a strong control environment.
• Identify key players in internal controls and their specific functions.
• Evaluate the Board’s mechanisms for overseeing internal control systems.
• Recognize the impact of regulatory policies on the Board’s control functions.

Programme Contents

• The Control Environment, Internal Controls, and Board Responsibilities
• Understanding the Contributions of Key Governance Stakeholders:
  • Chief Inspector
  • Internal Audit
  • External Audit
  • Chief Compliance Officer
• The Composition, Roles, and Duties of Audit Committees
• Whistleblowing Mechanisms and Regulatory Interventions in Controls

Building Board-Level Competencies for Top Management

Background

Competencies encompass experience, knowledge, skills, attitudes, values, and beliefs. To be considered ‘fit and proper’ for a Board role, a director must demonstrate industry-specific, technical, and behavioral competencies that address critical gaps within the Board.

While top management teams may possess competencies at different levels, grooming them for Board roles ensures they acquire the strategic and leadership capabilities needed in the boardroom.

This programme is specially designed to develop the board-level competencies of top management staff, preparing them for future leadership at the highest level.

Target Participants

This programme is ideal for:

• Senior and top-level management executives
• Individuals being prepared for director-grade roles
• Next-in-line leadership after the Board
• CEOs of young or subsidiary organisations

Programme Objectives

By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

• Define the specific roles and responsibilities of a Board.
• Understand how top management drives corporate governance.
• Examine the key competencies that directors bring to the boardroom.
• Explore strategic options for developing board-level competencies at both individual and organisational levels.

Programme Contents

• The Board’s Roles and Responsibilities
• Pipeline Management Staff as Drivers of Corporate Governance Implementation
• Core Competencies for Board-Level Functions, with Behavioral Indicators
• Strategic Options for Building Internal Capacity for the Boardroom

The SA, EA & PA Workshop

Background

In today’s dynamic corporate environment, Special Assistants (SAs), Executive Assistants (EAs), and Personal Assistants (PAs) play a crucial role in supporting C-Suite Executives. Their responsibilities go beyond administrative tasks; they must demonstrate specialized skills, enhance efficiency, and contribute directly to their executives’ success.

To excel in these roles, they must:

• Keep pace with modern workplace changes
• Think and act proactively
• Communicate effectively
• Manage themselves, their bosses, and key stakeholders

Recognizing the vital role of these professionals, IoD Nigeria has designed this workshop to equip them with the critical competencies needed to thrive and add value at the highest levels of the organization.

Target Participants

This programme is ideal for:

• Special Assistants (SAs)
• Executive Assistants (EAs)
• Personal Assistants (PAs)
• Personal Secretaries & Team Secretaries
• Project Secretaries & Administrative/Office Managers
• Help Desk Administrators & Office Supervisors
• All professionals who support C-Suite Executives

Programme Objectives

By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

• Understand their role in upholding corporate governance and ethical leadership
• Align executive support functions with corporate objectives
• Build and manage high-performing support teams
• Effectively manage self, boss, staff, and stakeholders
• Leverage emotional intelligence to influence others without formal authority
• Apply project management techniques to enhance productivity
• Develop superior communication skills, including active listening, questioning, and assertiveness
• Write effective and impactful reports
• Handle crisis situations using best-practice models while reducing stress

Modular Programme Structure

This intensive programme is delivered in three progressive stages:

Basic Module

• Day 1: Understanding the C-Suite, Corporate Governance & Corporate Strategy
• Day 2: Building Core Skills & Competencies for Executive Assistants

Intermediate Module

• Day 1: Managing Self, Time & Boss
• Day 2: Enhancing Skills & Competencies for Executive Assistants

Advanced Module

• Day 1: Visioning the C-Suite Transformation
• Day 2: Mastering High-Level Executive Support Functions

Young Directors Course (YDC I, II & III)

Overview

The Young Directors Forum (YDF) of the Chartered Institute of Directors (CIoD) Nigeria is a dynamic network of young, talented, and emerging board leaders serving as executive or non-executive directors across various sectors of the Nigerian economy.

These young directors are:

• Keen knowledge seekers eager to enhance their corporate governance skills
• Aspiring board leaders looking to leverage IoD Nigeria’s mentorship and networking opportunities
• Future Chartered Directors committed to giving back through mentorship and supporting the growth of IoD Nigeria

To equip and prepare them for higher leadership roles, IoD Nigeria has structured a comprehensive, three-stage modular programme that caters to their specific needs.

Programme Structure

Young Directors Course (YDC I) – Introduction to Corporate Governance & Entrepreneurship

• Fundamentals of Corporate Governance
• Key Entrepreneurial Skills for Boardroom Success
• Understanding Board Roles & Responsibilities

Young Directors Course (YDC II) – Enterprise Governance

• Best Practices in Enterprise Leadership & Governance
• Strategic Decision-Making for Business Growth
• Risk Management & Compliance in Corporate Settings

Young Directors Course (YDC III) – Managing Finance & Stakeholder Relationships

• Financial Oversight: Understanding Board-Level Financial Responsibilities
• Stakeholder Engagement: Building Strong Investor, Customer & Employee Relations
• Sustainability & Impact: Creating Long-Term Value & Corporate Legacy

Building Data-Driven & Digitally Transformed Boards

Background

In today’s business environment, data-driven decision-making is a cornerstone of effective corporate governance. Boards must develop proficiency in data analytics to provide oversight on business intelligence and strategic development.

Meanwhile, digital transformation has reshaped global business operations, enhancing connectivity, efficiency, and productivity. However, challenges such as data privacy, cybersecurity risks, and AI governance remain critical concerns.

This course is designed to equip board members with the skills needed to leverage data for decision-making and drive digital transformation for long-term success.

Target Participants

This programme is designed for:

• Board Leaders – Chairmen, Managing Directors, Executive & Non-Executive Directors
• Strategic Decision-Makers – Board Members of Public & Private Sector Organizations
• Governance & Technology Executives – CIOs, COOs, CFOs, CROs, Directors/Heads of IT, Chief Innovation Officers
• Regulatory & Advisory Professionals – Members of Governing Councils of business membership organizations

Programme Objectives

By the end of the course, participants will be able to:

• Utilize data analytics for more informed boardroom decision-making
• Understand the board’s role in data privacy and protection
• Strengthen governance frameworks for cybersecurity and AI risk management
• Leverage digital tools to enhance board efficiency and effectiveness

Programme Content

• Boards, Data Analytics & Decision Making – Using data insights to drive corporate strategy
• Data Privacy & Protection: The Board’s Role – Ensuring regulatory compliance and ethical governance
• Governance of Cybersecurity & AI – Addressing evolving risks and responsibilities
• Digitalizing Board Meetings for Efficiency & Effectiveness – Enhancing collaboration with technology
• Future-Ready Boards – A checklist for navigating digital transformation

Training Methodology

This interactive 2-day programme is designed for maximum engagement and practical learning, featuring:

• Expert-led presentations
• Case studies & real-world scenarios
• Group discussions & breakout sessions
• Collaborative brainstorming exercises

Participants will leave with actionable insights to drive data-driven governance and digital transformation at the board level.

Board Refreshment & Remuneration

Background

Board refreshment is a key aspect of corporate governance, ensuring organizations remain adaptive, competitive, and strategically aligned with evolving business landscapes. A well-structured board renewal process provides the right mix of skills, expertise, and leadership to meet both short-term and long-term organizational needs.

High-performing boards recognize that regular refreshment strengthens leadership capacity, strategic positioning, risk management, and digital transformation. However, many organizations struggle with this process despite clear guidelines outlined in corporate governance codes, company laws, and MEMART provisions.

Similarly, board remuneration is a critical yet complex issue. It serves as both an incentive for high performance and a cost consideration for maintaining a refreshed, effective board.

This programme is designed to provide participants with practical insights and best practices on structuring board refreshment and remuneration strategies for sustained governance excellence.

Target Participants

This workshop is ideal for:

• Corporate & Board Leaders: CEOs, Executive & Non-Executive Directors, Chairmen, Board Members, Company Secretaries, Board Advisors
• Business Owners & Investors: Shareholders in family, private, and public firms
• Public Sector Executives: Ministers, Commissioners, Permanent Secretaries, Director-Cadre Officials, Chairmen & Board Members of Government Agencies

Programme Objectives

By the end of the programme, participants will be able to:

• Understand the relationship between board refreshment, remuneration, and overall performance
• Identify key drivers and determinants of board renewal and director compensation
• Recognize board composition gaps that may impact governance effectiveness
• Apply best practices in structuring board remuneration to enhance leadership and performance

Programme Content

• Board Refreshment, Remuneration & Performance: Understanding their interconnected impact
• Key Drivers of Board Refreshment: Internal and external influences, legal frameworks, governance codes, and global best practices
• Determining Directors’ Remuneration: Strategies to align compensation with board renewal and high performance
• Lessons from Global Best Practices: Case studies on effective board refreshment and remuneration models

Methodology

This one-day intensive programme is designed for practical learning and application, featuring:

• Real-world case studies on board renewal and remuneration
• Facilitated discussions & brainstorming sessions
• Breakout groups for interactive exercises

ESG Governance & Effective Sustainability Reporting

Background

In the past decade, Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors and sustainability reporting have become essential components of corporate oversight. Investors increasingly assess ESG performance when making funding decisions, making transparent and high-quality reporting a key factor in attracting investment.

To ensure long-term sustainability, regulatory compliance, and investor confidence, boards must develop a strong understanding of ESG frameworks and effectively integrate them into their governance and oversight roles.

This course is designed to equip board members with the knowledge and competencies required to provide effective ESG oversight and drive sustainability initiatives within their organizations.

Target Participants

This programme is ideal for:

• Corporate Leaders & Board Members: Chairmen, Managing Directors, Executive & Non-Executive Directors
• Governance & Policy Makers: Members of Governing Councils of business membership organizations
• Senior Management & Compliance Officers: COOs, Company Secretaries, and other executives responsible for sustainability governance

Programme Objectives

By the end of this programme, participants will be able to:

• Understand core sustainability principles and their impact on business strategy
• Explain the business case for ESG integration at the board level
• Assess, critique, and refine ESG frameworks as needed
• Review and enhance sustainability reports for compliance and transparency

Programme Content

• Fundamentals of Sustainability: Principles, policies, and corporate culture
• The Business Case for ESG: Strategic importance and impact on organizational success
• Understanding the ESG Framework: Key components and application in governance
• Sustainability Reporting Mechanics: Best practices for effective disclosure and compliance

Methodology

This two-day programme features a highly interactive and practical approach, including:

• Expert-led presentations on ESG governance and reporting
• Group discussions and brainstorming sessions for real-world application
• Case studies analyzing successful ESG implementation
• Breakout sessions and hands-on exercises for critical thinking and problem-solving

The Board’s Role in Succession Planning

Background

The saying "failure to plan is planning to fail" holds particularly true for succession planning in organizations. A lack of a well-structured succession strategy can leave a company vulnerable when key executives or critical personnel depart unexpectedly. This can disrupt operations, hinder performance, and negatively impact organizational stability and financial health.

Given the complexities involved in executive transitions, boards must proactively establish robust succession plans to ensure leadership continuity, risk mitigation, and long-term organizational success.

This course is designed to equip board members with the knowledge and tools needed to develop and implement effective succession planning strategies, ensuring seamless leadership transitions and sustained business performance.

Target Participants

This programme is designed for:

• Corporate Leaders & Board Members: Chairmen, CEOs, Executive & Non-Executive Directors
• Governance & HR Professionals: Company Secretaries, Board Advisors, HR Directors & Consultants
• Senior Management & Business Owners: General Managers with HR responsibilities, investors, shareholders in private, family, and public firms
• Government Officials: Ministers, Commissioners, Permanent Secretaries, Directors, and Board Members of Government Parastatals & Agencies

Programme Objectives

By the end of this programme, participants will be able to:

• Understand the board’s strategic role in succession planning
• Apply best practices for effective succession management
• Oversee talent development and succession evaluation
• Manage unexpected executive departures without disrupting operations

Programme Content

• Succession Planning as a Strategic Board Responsibility
• Governance Framework for Effective Succession Planning
• Key Elements of Seamless Leadership Transition: Risk, Change, Talent, and Periodic Plan Evaluation
• Building Executive & Non-Executive Leadership Pipelines for Sustainable Growth

Methodology

This one-day course is highly interactive and practical, designed to engage participants through:

• Expert presentations and industry insights
• Case studies on successful succession planning
• Group discussions & brainstorming for practical applications
• Breakout sessions & real-world problem-solving exercises

Becoming a High-Performing COO & CFO Workshop

Background

Among C-suite executives, the Chief Operating Officer (COO) and Chief Financial Officer (CFO) hold pivotal roles in organizational success. Their expertise in strategic planning, financial oversight, and operational execution is essential in driving business growth and sustainability.

However, today’s rapidly evolving business landscape demands that COOs and CFOs go beyond their traditional functions. They must adapt to complex challenges, shape business strategy, and collaborate across departments to enhance organizational performance. To thrive in this dynamic environment, only COOs and CFOs equipped with advanced knowledge and competencies can maximize their impact.

This programme, specifically designed by IoD Nigeria, aims to sharpen the leadership, strategic, and technical skills of COOs and CFOs, empowering them to become high-performing executives who drive profitability, operational efficiency, and corporate growth.

Programme Objectives

By the end of this workshop, participants will be able to:

• Understand the COO’s and CFO’s role in enhancing profitability through value chain innovation, cost optimization, and risk management.
• Build organizational culture that fosters operational excellence.
• Enhance their ability to lead strategically, add value to the board, and engage critical stakeholders.
• Address global business challenges affecting their roles and responsibilities.

Target Participants

This programme is designed for:

• Current and aspiring COOs and CFOs
• Direct reports to COOs & CFOs, including Directors of Operations & Finance
• Senior & Principal Managers preparing for C-suite roles
• Heads of Operations, Control, Risk, IT, Sales, Marketing, Business Development, and Strategy
• Chief Information Officers (CIOs), Chief Risk Officers (CROs), and Treasurers
• Supervisors of CFOs (e.g., CEOs, Deputy Managing Directors) who need insights to provide effective oversight
• Top management executives responsible for financial metrics, competitive analysis, and business restructuring

Programme Content

• Driving Strategy & Building a High-Performance Culture
• Enhancing Profitability: Cost Optimization, Risk Management & Value Chain Innovations
• Navigating Contemporary Business Challenges: A COO & CFO Perspective

Methodology

This workshop takes a practical and interactive approach, incorporating:

• Expert-led presentations
• Case studies & real-world applications
• Group discussions & breakout sessions
• Problem-solving exercises & interactive Q&A

Building a High-Performing Board

Background

Recent research on board governance has established a strong correlation between board performance and board refreshment (also known as board renewal). Studies, such as the ISS 2016-2017 Global Policy Survey, confirm that dynamic, regularly refreshed boards are more effective and better equipped to navigate business challenges than static, stagnant boards.

To remain competitive, organizations must invigorate their boards with the right mix of experienced and new directors who bring fresh ideas and perspectives. High-performing boards focus on leadership capacity, strategic positioning, risk management, and digital transformation—all of which are essential for long-term success.

Despite regulatory frameworks such as company laws, corporate governance codes, and MEMARTS, many organizations struggle with board renewal. Additionally, board remuneration remains a complex issue, balancing performance incentives with cost considerations.

This practical and insightful programme is designed to equip participants with the knowledge and best practices needed to build high-performing boards, while addressing key challenges like board refreshment, dynamics, and remuneration.

Expected Participants

This programme is designed for:

• CEOs, Executive & Non-Executive Directors
• Board Chairmen & Members
• Company Secretaries & Board Advisors
• Business Owners, Investors & Shareholders (family, private, and public firms)
• Government Functionaries (Ministers, Commissioners, Permanent Secretaries, Directors, Chairmen & Board Members of Parastatals and Agencies)

Programme Objectives

By the end of this programme, participants will be able to:

• Develop and apply Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for boards
• Analyze board structures and governance practices to enhance performance
• Explore board dynamics and culture to drive effectiveness
• Make informed decisions on board remuneration to incentivize high performance

Programme Content

• Defining Board KPIs: Generic, Customized, and Competitive Metrics
• Governance Tools & Best Practices for Board Effectiveness
• Drivers of Board Refreshment: Internal, External, Legal & Global Trends
• Strengthening Board Performance through Effective Board Culture & Dynamics

Methodology

This interactive workshop combines:

• Expert-led presentations
• Case studies & global best practices
• Group discussions & real-world applications
• Breakout sessions for deep-dives into board effectiveness

Etiquette and Emotional Intelligence for Board's Peak Performance

Background

How can boards with diverse perspectives, different personalities, and varying viewpoints build consensus and make effective decisions? The answer lies in directors’ conduct, respect for boardroom protocols, and emotional intelligence.

Boards that overlook these factors often struggle with internal conflicts, prolonged debates, and unproductive meetings, leading to weakened decision-making and poor organizational outcomes. To address this, forward-thinking organizations provide structured training that goes beyond basic board inductions, focusing on etiquette, professionalism, and emotional intelligence.

This programme equips board members with the essential skills needed to enhance collaboration, trust, and effective governance. Participants will learn best practices for boardroom etiquette, professional communication, and emotional intelligence techniques to foster a cohesive and high-performing board culture.

Target Participants

This programme is designed for:

• Chairmen, Managing Directors, CEOs
• Executive & Non-Executive Directors
• Board Members of Private & Public Sector Organizations
• Company Secretaries & Board Advisors
• Top Government Officials (Ministers, Commissioners, Permanent Secretaries, Director-level Officers, Chairmen & Board Members of Government Agencies & Parastatals)

Programme Objectives

At the end of the course, participants will be able to:

• Understand boardroom etiquette and its impact on governance
• Apply proper conduct before, during, and after board meetings
• Master different communication styles for effective discussions and decision-making
• Utilize emotional intelligence to manage boardroom dynamics and relationships

Programme Content

• Eleven Leading Etiquettes of Highly Performing Board Directors
• Board Meeting Etiquette: Before, During & After Meetings
• Mastering Boardroom Language and Communication Styles
• Applying Emotional Intelligence & Personality Profiling on the Board

Methodology

This interactive programme will feature:

• Presentations by industry experts
• Case studies & real-world scenarios
• Group discussions & breakout sessions
• Role-playing exercises for boardroom interactions

Directors and the Future of Business: Cybersecurity & AI

Background

Cyber-attacks have become a critical global business risk. These attacks not only have the potential to erase significant investments within minutes but can also impact national security, economic stability, and consumer confidence. Today, every organization—regardless of size or industry—is a potential target. As such, preparing for and responding to cybersecurity threats is a top executive responsibility.

Organizations that are best positioned to mitigate cyber risks are those led by executives and boards who are well-informed and proactive. The role of directors extends beyond setting policies and approving budgets; they must provide strategic oversight and leadership in safeguarding their organizations against cyber threats. Establishing a strong security culture at the top is crucial.

Additionally, staying abreast of developments in Artificial Intelligence (AI) is equally vital, as AI is reshaping business operations, cybersecurity strategies, and governance frameworks.

Cybersecurity risk management is not just an IT issue—it is a cross-functional responsibility that requires executive leadership and strategic oversight. This programme is designed to deepen directors' understanding of cyber threats and risks, equipping them with the tools to proactively manage and mitigate potential crises.

Target Participants

This programme is ideal for:

• Chairmen, Directors, and CEOs
• Executive & Non-Executive Directors
• CFOs, COOs, and Company Secretaries
• Legal Advisers and Top Management Executives

Programme Objectives

The Directors and the Future of Business Programme is designed to enhance an organization’s resilience against cyber threats and emerging technologies by equipping executives and board members with up-to-date insights into the cybersecurity landscape.

Programme Content

• Organizing Cybersecurity Priorities & Risk Management
• Developing Cyber Defense Strategies & Managing Cyber Crises
• Building a Cybersecurity Culture & Strengthening Risk Awareness
• Governance of Cybersecurity & Artificial Intelligence

Best Practices in Board-Management Relationship

Programme Background

One of the critical challenges in corporate governance is fostering a strong and effective relationship between the Board and management. Clear, transparent, and structured communication ensures that both parties are aligned, reducing friction and preventing misunderstandings.

A Board must clearly understand its distinct role from management, and vice versa. Establishing healthy board-management dynamics is essential for achieving the organization’s long-term vision and sustainability.

This programme equips board members with the knowledge, tools, and frameworks necessary to perform their roles effectively while also guiding management on how to support and engage the Board in a way that enhances collaboration and strategic decision-making.

Target Participants

This programme is designed for:

• CEOs, Executive Directors, and Non-Executive Directors
• Chairmen, Board Members, and Company Secretaries
• Board Advisors, Business Owners, and Investors
• Shareholders in family, private, and public firms
• Top Government Functionaries (Ministers, Commissioners, Permanent Secretaries, Director Cadre Officials, Chairmen, and Board Members of Government Parastatals and Agencies)

Programme Objectives

By the end of the course, participants will be able to:

• Understand governance frameworks and the dynamics between the Board and management.
• Develop effective communication strategies and avoid common pitfalls.
• Apply tools for conflict resolution and foster a constructive working relationship.
• Gain insights into board-management performance evaluations for continuous improvement.

Course Content

• Corporate Governance Structures: Understanding Points of Convergence & Divergence Between Board & Management Roles
• Building Effective Board-Management Trust and Collaboration
• Evaluations that Strengthen a Healthy Board-Management Relationship

Inclusive Leadership: Fostering a Diverse and Equitable Board Culture

Programme Overview

Creating and sustaining an inclusive board culture is one of the most critical challenges in organizational leadership. However, its moral imperatives, far-reaching benefits, and minimal risk of failure make it an essential aspect of contemporary corporate governance. As a result, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) have become a global megatrend in board leadership.

As part of their oversight responsibilities, boards are expected to:

• Develop pragmatic DEI policies
• Set clear inclusion goals for management
• Champion and drive inclusive behaviors
• Ensure accountability through periodic DEI progress reports

This programme provides fresh insights into inclusive leadership principles and practices, equipping directors with the necessary skills to foster a diverse and equitable board culture. Participants will explore the impact of diversity on decision-making, organizational performance, and strategies for creating an inclusive governance structure.

Programme Objectives

By the end of the course, participants will be able to:

• Understand the concepts of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in leadership.
• Recognize the benefits of diverse perspectives in boards and organizations.
• Identify barriers to inclusivity and implement strategies to overcome them.
• Develop skills for facilitating inclusive conversations and decision-making.
• Create actionable plans to enhance diversity and equity within board structures.

Target Participants

This programme is designed for:

• CEOs, Executive Directors, and Non-Executive Directors
• Chairmen, Board Members, and Company Secretaries
• Board Advisors, Business Owners, and Investors
• Shareholders in family, private, and public firms
• Top Government Functionaries (Ministers, Commissioners, Permanent Secretaries, Director Cadre Officials, Chairmen, and Board Members of Government Parastatals and Agencies)

Programme Contents

• Overview of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)
• Creating & Sustaining an Inclusive Board Culture
• DEI Action Planning and Implementation