Board Member Induction

New board members will want to contribute to the organization as quickly as possible. A well-thought-out induction program will help them hit the ground running. The purpose of this board briefing is to help you consider what needs to be included in your induction program.

The Purpose of the Induction Programme

It’s a structured way of providing new board members with all the information and support they need to be confident and productive in their role. The aim is to help new members to understand the organisation, the environment in which it operates, and their role in making the organisation a success.

An induction programme can last for a few months or a year depending on scale and complexity of the organisation. It will involve:

• Welcoming the new board member and introducing them to the board team and other key personnel, including the CEO and executive directors of each functional area of the company
• An introduction to the strategic plan and financial position of the organisation
• An introduction to the governance arrangements which are in place
• Meeting with key stakeholders where relevant
• Regular reviews with the chair to check understanding, identify issues and encourage development

The steps involved in developing an induction programme for board members

It is important to have an induction plan in place before the new board member begins. Doing so presents a professional image of the organisation, and is very reassuring for the new board member. An induction pack which contains all the key documents required by board members should be produced. It is the responsibility of the chair to work through the induction pack with all new board members.

In addition to familiarizing the new board member with the documents, the induction should be used to introduce them to the culture of the organisation and their role and responsibilities as a board member.

It may also involve identifying training and development needs to ensure the board member can contribute effectively to the organisation.

HOW WE CAN HELP

As Imperial Registrars, we shall be pleased to assist your company in ensuring that you have a well prepared induction plan to assist the new board members fit into the organization for the effective functioning of your company. Kindly get in touch with us for further assistance on the above. (Info@imperialregistrars.co.ke)