Serving on a Board A Series

This 5-part series is designed specifically for lawyers who are interested in serving on a board of directors. Lawyers bring valuable skills and insights to the boardroom, and are often sought-after board members, but effective board service requires more than legal expertise. Join us for this valuable series to gather foundational knowledge, core competencies, and practical tools necessary to serve confidently, ethically, and effectively.

Explore the structure and purpose of various types of boards, learn how to position yourself for board opportunities, and gain critical insights into governance, fiduciary responsibilities, financial oversight, and strategic leadership.

Whether you are just beginning to explore board service or seeking to deepen your governance skills, this series will prepare you for meaningful and informed board participation.

Getting On a Board

Part 1
Gather helpful guidance on how to access board opportunities, evaluate the right fit and build a compelling board profile. We’ll explore selection processes, the qualities boards seek in candidates, and how lawyers can leverage their experience to secure and succeed in board roles, including:
- Different types of boards
- How board appointments and selection processes work
- Identifying board opportunities
- Building your board resume and value proposition
- Understanding what boards look for in new members
- Navigating the vetting and nomination process
- Questions to ask before saying “yes” to a board seat
Duties, Responsibilities & Expectations of Board Members

Part 2
Get up-to-speed on the legal, ethical, and fiduciary responsibilities that come with board service. You will gain a solid practical understanding of the core duties of board members, including:
- Board structures and governance models
- Roles of the board vs. management
- Expectations around time, engagement, and committee work
- Legal and ethical obligations, including fiduciary duties
- Understanding bylaws, governance policies, and codes of conduct
- Conflicts of interest and how to handle them
- Common board committees and their roles
- Life cycle of board service and board dynamics
Financial Oversight and Accountability

Part 3
Join us to demystify financial oversight and get the tools you need to confidently engage with an organization’s financial information and ask informed questions to support sound fiscal governance. You will also gain insight into the board’s role in financial planning, audit oversight, and long-term sustainability, including:
- Financial statement essentials
- Understanding budgets, forecasting and audits
- Pension plans, liabilities, and long-term financial health
- Financial red flags
- Financial roles of the board vs. management
Board Governance in Action – Strategy and Organizational Oversight

Part 4
A board of directors plays a critical role in providing strategic direction and ensuring effective organizational governance. Gain practical tools and frameworks to actively participate in these roles and executive your duties, including:
- Governance best practices and red flags
- Board’s role in strategic planning and major initiatives
- Oversight vs. execution
- Monitoring organizational performance
The Role of the Board in Risk Oversight

Part 5
Organizations are facing increasing risks – both in terms of quantum and magnitude. Unpack the role of the Board in risk oversight, including:
- How to identify and assess risk
- Common risks and strategies for mitigating them
- Personal liability and what you need to know about Directors and Officers insurance

Complete all five sessions in the Serving on a Board: A Series and receive a Certificate of Completion. Build the practical knowledge and confidence you need to understand your responsibilities, contribute effectively and make an impact when serving on a board.