Board service calls for a different mindset from executive leadership: directors must move from doing to governing, bringing strategic judgment, informed oversight, and an enterprise-wide perspective to the boardroom. Women on Boards: Getting On and Adding Value prepares accomplished women executives for both parts of the journey—positioning themselves to secure board opportunities and developing the skills and perspective needed to contribute effectively once appointed. 

Women now hold 35% of director seats on S&P 500 boards, up from 20% in 2015. Yet board refreshment slowed in 2025, making thoughtful preparation and clear candidate positioning especially important for executives pursuing board service. 

As a participant, you will explore how boards operate, what organizations seek in prospective directors, and how your own experience can translate into a compelling board value proposition. You will exam ine governance and fiduciary responsibilities, strategy, financial and risk oversight, executive and director compensation, legal and regulatory considerations, board culture, and the relationship between the board and management. You will also work on the practical elements of the board search process—from developing a board bio or resume and building a networking strategy to evaluating opportunities and conducting due diligence.