CHAIRMAN’S ACADEMY
BACKGROUND
The step from CEO, usually via Non-Executive Director, to Chairman is hugely challenging and the role of Chairman is one for which there is very little formal preparation.

Several paths can lead to a Chairmanship. In general, former Chief Executives are considered to be qualified to chair Boards. However, former Finance Directors and other executives with alternative backgrounds such as investment banking, accountancy or the law, are increasingly found at the top of the table too.

Whatever the relevant qualifications, even the best prepared appointees are likely to face unexpected demands and challenges which they will rarely have anticipated, or for which they may not necessarily have the experience or expertise to make decisions which ensure immediate and future success.

What can be done to bridge the experience gap for first-time, to-be appointed or recently nominated Chairmen?

CHAIRMAN MENTORING BY CHAIRMEN
Our answer is for prospective Chairmen to engage in personalised, structured one-to-one mentoring with experienced fellow Chairmen, with a view to prepare for the important new role ahead.

With this in mind, CMi has designed a process and framework, assisting first time Chairmen by providing confidential trusted advice from experienced practitioners. We call this our "Chairman's Academy".

The proposed service is based on close collaboration between a significant number of Chairmen Mentors who have unrivalled international experience of running all types of Boards in many different European jurisdictions. The programme itself involves several one-to-one sessions where personal chemistry, trust and the exchange of ideas, all in the strictest confidence, create effective learning. A typical bespoke assignment may engage several Mentors and a great deal of flexibility to adapt to the subject matters and experience sought.

This is a unique and essential service reflecting the crucial, and continually evolving role of the Chairman of a large listed company's Board.