In this episode, we're tackling a crucial topic: diversity in boardrooms. But I wanted to take a slightly different angle with this conversation. Yes, I wanted to explore how to create more inclusive boards, but I also wanted to empower diverse individuals to take their seat at the Board table. It takes action from both sides to build and leverage a diverse Board.

Joining me today is the incredibly knowledgeable and passionate Christal Cherry. With her wealth of experience in the nonprofit sector, Christal is a true expert in board development and diversity, equity, and inclusion.

In this episode, we'll delve into these key questions:

• What exactly is a diverse candidate, and how can boards prepare themselves to welcome and support them?
• How can diverse individuals position themselves to become board-ready and navigate the unique challenges they may face?
• And what can we do as individuals and collectively to foster a more inclusive board culture?

About Christal Cherry

Christal M. Cherry is a nationally acclaimed nonprofit board consultant and certified leadership coach. With over 25 years of experience in the nonprofit sector, she has supported higher education institutions, human services organizations, and faith-based missions. Her extensive career as a full-time consultant includes working with the Boys and Girls Club USA, Habitat for Humanity, DeKalb, the Ahmaud Arbery Foundation, the Junior League, YWCA USA, Emory University, United Negro College Fund, Spelman College, Scholarship America, Nicholas House, Florida A&M University, and the Georgia Center for Nonprofits.

With passion and extensive experience, Christal assists clients in establishing a clear path to success in board development. Her style is electrifying, inspiring, and energizing.

Christal holds a MA in Counseling from Hampton University, a BA in Liberal Arts from Hofstra University, and professional development certifications in nonprofit leadership, social media fundraising, and nonprofit management. She is also certified as a Quadrant 3 Leadership Coach.

She currently serves on the board of directors for Atlanta-based nonprofits, the Villages of Carver YMCA, Fabulous Female Fundraisers, Nicholas House, and Lift to Enrich Inc. She is a sought-after guest presenter on topics such as equitable board governance, recruitment, and diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. Christal has been featured on multiple podcasts and serves as an expert on board matters.

Connect with Christal on LinkedIn

Visit Christal’s website – The Board Pro

In an era of rapid technological advancements, shifting regulatory landscapes, and evolving stakeholder expectations, traditional governance models may no longer suffice. It's time to rethink our approach and ensure that our governance practices are aligned with our organisation's unique needs and strategic goals.

My guest today is Dr Dean Blomson. Dean is a highly experienced strategy and transformation advisor, having previously served as a consulting partner with several global consulting firms. He has a strong interest in improving decision quality (and the probabilities of success), having been involved in leadership and governance over major capital commitments (M&A, capital projects, transformations), program disciplines and delivery.

Dean has a PhD in board governance of mergers and acquisitions, operates his own independent strategic advisory business, is a board director, and a part-time professor and regular teacher of executive MBAs.

Our conversation in this episode centres around the findings of a collaborative, thought-provoking research project in 2021 that Dean led and co-authored with EY’s Global Centre for Board Matters into Board Governance Models of the Future.

Specifically, we'll delve into the following questions:

• What is fit-for-purpose governance? How does it differ from the often adopted "governance by default"?
• What factors make governance "fit for purpose" or not? What are the key attributes of effective governance?
• How can we identify the signs that our governance practices are outdated or ineffective? What are the warning signals that should prompt us to take action?
• How can boards and organisations evolve their governance practices to be more fit for purpose? What are the best practices and strategies to adopt?
• What are the common pitfalls to avoid when modernizing governance? How can we navigate the challenges and ensure a successful transition?

By the end of this episode, you'll have a clear understanding of fit-for-purpose governance and be equipped to assess your Board's current practices. Join us as we explore how to build a strong foundation for long-term success.

Links Mentioned and Useful Resources

Connect with Dean on LinkedIn

EY’s Global Centre for Board Matters into Board Governance Models of the Future

Thinking outside the governance box to the board of the future: Exploring “fit-for-future-purpose” governance operating models (Corporate Board: Role, Duties & Composition, Volume 17, Issue 2, 2021, Virtus Press)

Risk Governance & Control: Financial Markets & Institutions / Volume 13, Issue 3, 2023, Virtus Press

For an overview of Dean’s fit-for-purpose governance model, I recommend watching the following webinars and downloading the slide resources.

Does governance need a reboot? Governance 4.0?

How to determine if your governance is fit for purpose

How to think differently about whole of business governance

Thanks to our sponsor BoardPro

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