Today I spent time with a group of relatively new directors in a manufacturing company, exploring what it means to take a seat at the board table. We discussed directors’ duties, how they should contribute to board meetings, and the consequences of their decisions for employees, customers, suppliers and the wider community. Throughout the session, I wanted to convey a sense of opportunity alongside the weight of responsibility. Becoming a director can be an exciting step. It

When you have spent years building a business, it is easy to assume that the opportunity to leave will present itself when the time is right. Someone will make an approach. The right person will step forward. The timing will somehow fall into place. Perhaps it will. But I would be uncomfortable leaving something so important to chance. An exit deserves the same thought and preparation that went into building the business. Leave it too late and you may find that your choices h