Being the Managing Director and also the major shareholder of a private or family company can be a lonely role. Staff are sometimes reluctant to voice their opinion and even when they do, the viewpoint is often influenced by the subservient employee position. An advisory board brings independent, considered advice without the negatives, for either party, of a statutory Non Executive Director.

I am often asked what makes a good Independent Director. After many years of sitting on Boards and advising Boards I have found there are a number of key skills that sets you apart from the rest....unfortunately, there are also some traits that are best not seen in the Boardroom.