Reimagining the role of modern boards — and their members

Imagine being asked to re-apply for your role on the board tomorrow.

With a rewritten job description. With expectations that seem far removed from what you signed up for. With technology that you’re not familiar with. And with regulations that feel increasingly complex, high stakes, and limiting.

In essence, this is a reality that board members are facing today.

The pressures of technological disruption , shifting societal expectations, and global geopolitical instability have ushered in an era where boards need to evolve — or risk becoming obsolete. What’s more, the rulebook is being rewritten for the next generation of board members . Their entry to the board is predicated on bridging between the legacy expectations of governance, and the demands of modern boards.

In this article, we explore the traits and skills that define modern boards and their members — and outline a plan to help the board members of today and tomorrow to embrace the future.

Why modern boards have evolved

The world that boards oversee has grown exponentially more volatile in the last 20 years. Fractured geopolitics, new technologies, and unpredictable macroeconomics have created a backdrop where the role of boards can no longer be pure oversight. Boards need to evolve into engaged, dynamic, and agile participants in governance, guiding organisations towards opportunities and away from risks.

This evolution stems from a range of factors. First, societal expectations have risen — boards are now expected to prioritise ethical governance and make decisions that balance profit with purpose. Shareholders, employees, and customers alike are demanding accountability and a commitment to values that extend beyond financial returns.

Secondly, digital innovations have introduced unprecedented complexity and speed. Cyber risks, data security, and the rise of AI demand board members who possess both technical acumen and the ability to navigate rapid change. 

In addition, diversity — in all its forms — has become non-negotiable. Boards that embrace a range of perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences make better decisions, foster innovation, and are better equipped to anticipate and mitigate risks. And diversity is only truly effective when coupled with an inclusive culture that ensures all voices are heard and valued.

As a result, modern boards need to be more comfortable with being in a state of flux, shedding the rigid approaches of yesterday in favour of openness and real-time decision-making. The boards that cling to outdated governance models risk falling behind, unable to meet the demands of a future shaped by innovation, agility, and resilience. 

A new job description for modern board members

With the context of modern governance in mind, what does the job description of a future-proof board member look like? 

If today’s board members were handed a revised job description, it would likely come as a surprise. The role has transformed dramatically, demanding new skills, approaches, insights, and acumen. 

Modern boards need to be equipped to govern in an era defined by complexity and change. But possessing these traits isn’t enough — boards need to also commit to their development to remain effective. And for the board members of tomorrow — who are still progressing up the corporate ladder — these changes are perhaps even more important. 

Here are the skills and traits modern boards need to have — and how they can be developed:

1. Subject matter expertise: Breadth as well as depth

In an era of rapid change, boards need a broad range of subject-matter expertise, as well as the deep expertise in their area. Modern board members need to develop an in-depth understanding of a broader range of topics than ever before, spanning current landscapes, emerging trends, and potential disruptions. 

Whether it’s recognising opportunities in new markets or technologies, managing risks, or staying ahead of regulatory shifts, boards should provide strategic insights to keep organisations competitive.

Pro tips: 

• Engage in ongoing education through industry-specific training or professional certifications.
• Attend conferences, workshops, and seminars to stay informed about emerging issues.
• Invite external experts to board meetings for insight into specific challenges or opportunities.
• Use large language models (LLMs) to summarise information on subjects you are less familiar with. 

2. Technological proficiency

Technology is no longer a side note in governance — it’s the backbone. The rate of technological advancement in the last three years has made it clear that the future needs board members who can understand and assess technology’s strategic impact, encourage early adoption, and make swift decisions rooted on which innovations to prioritise. 

While boards needn’t be IT specialists, every board member needs to be able to weigh the risks and opportunities associated with digital transformation and innovation.

Pro tips: 

• Conduct regular technology briefings or workshops as part of board activities.
• Leverage insights from CIOs or external advisors to understand key technological trends.
• Use tools like board management software to enhance collaboration and improve meeting productivity.

3. Inherently "human" traits 

As technology automates routine processes, the human traits of creativity, empathy, and sound judgement become even more valuable. 

Modern boards need members who can navigate ethical dilemmas, foster collaboration, and think outside the box to create innovative solutions. These uniquely human skills will remain critical in the governance of the future.

Pro tips: 

• Encourage ongoing training that focuses on emotional intelligence and ethical decision-making.
• Create mentoring programmes within the board to share knowledge and strengthen collaboration.
• Include case studies or scenario-based discussions in meetings to test and enhance problem-solving skills.

4. A firm grasp on board meetings

While the fundamental structure of board meetings has endured, their purpose and execution should be reimagined. 

Meetings should prioritise strategy, decision-making, and driving meaningful outcomes — rather than getting bogged down in administrative tasks. To achieve this, board members need to excel at leading focused, productive discussions that align with organisational goals.

Pro tips: 

• Shift meeting agendas to prioritise strategic topics over routine updates.
• Use board meeting management software to streamline preparation, securely share materials, and enable real-time collaboration.
• Conduct regular reviews of meeting effectiveness , identifying ways to improve focus and outcomes.

Invest in meeting facilitation training for chairs and members to ensure discussions are both efficient and impactful.

The future: What steps should board members take today?

Future-proofing governance doesn’t require sweeping overhauls — it demands deliberate, tangible steps. 

Here’s what board members can do today to prepare for tomorrow:

1. Set aside time for skills development

Boards need to dedicate time to improving their competencies. Schedule regular training sessions to deepen understanding of critical areas like technology, ESG, or industry-specific trends. 

As Jonathan Johannes, Managing Director of Grupo Unicomer, explains “fostering a culture of continuous learning and development within the board enhances overall effectiveness. Board retreats, ongoing education sessions, and exposure to industry trends can keep board members informed and engaged.“ He continues, “It’s important to periodically revisit and update the board’s skills matrix and composition criteria to ensure alignment with the organization’s changing strategic priorities.” 

2. Rethink board processes — starting with your agendas

Transform your meetings into strategic sessions by reimagining the processes that support them, starting with the way you formulate agendas. 

Your board meeting agendas should be formulated as questions, to encourage a solution-oriented mindset, and you should distinguish between the items that need discussion and those that are purely informational. What’s more, it’s vital that boards invest time in preparation, rather than using valuable meeting time for those who are ill-prepared to catch up on the pre-reading. 

As a result, your board will reduce time spent on operational updates and prioritise discussions that demand input, debate, and decision-making. 

3. Invest in the right tools

Modern governance requires the right technology. 

According to Anand Pillai, Chief Transformation Officer at Leadership Matter, “Effective boards are built on strong relationships and open communication… Technology plays a crucial role in fostering collaboration. Utilise board management software to streamline communication and document sharing, making it easier for members to stay engaged and informed.” 

Tools like Sherpany can eliminate administrative headaches from board meetings, enabling board members to focus on strategy and collaboration rather than process.

4. Build a pipeline for diversity

According to Ira Argawal, serial chair and member of a range of boards, “Recruiting and onboarding new board members is vital for governance rejuvenation, injecting diverse perspectives and enhancing collective intelligence.” 

Future-ready boards actively cultivate diversity by building pipelines that encourage varied perspectives. Partner with organisations that focus on underrepresented talent, and mentor rising leaders who bring unique viewpoints. Consider non-traditional candidates who can challenge groupthink and add fresh ideas.

4. Create a well-rounded board composition

Beyond skills, modern boards need the right composition. Experience, soft skills, and expertise need to join in harmony for the boards of the future to deliver their full potential. 

On this journey, diversity is far more than a compliance measure; it’s a competitive advantage. Boards that prioritise diversity across gender, ethnicity, thought, and experience foster richer decision-making and innovation. However, diversity needs to be more than skin-deep — inclusion is essential to create an environment where different perspectives are heard and valued.

According to Ashok Prabhu, executive and experience director, “Define the ideal number of board members and also the competencies required in totality within the board.” He continues, “Define the non-negotiables like for example ethical behavior, strategic thinking and ability to carry others with you, and then the balance competencies need to be present in one, or preferably multiple board members.” 

Become a modern board today with Sherpany

The role of modern boards is evolving rapidly, and those who thrive in this new era will be those willing to adapt. By embracing a new job description — one that demands strategic expertise, technological fluency, and human creativity — boards can position themselves as proactive drivers rather than reactive overseers.

The steps outlined in this article provide a clear path forward: focus on skills development, reimagine meetings, adopt the right tools, and actively cultivate diversity. These actions ensure that boards stay ahead, equipped to navigate the complexities of governance with agility and confidence.

With tools like Sherpany to simplify processes and foster collaboration, boards can focus on what truly matters: steering their organisations toward growth, resilience, and success. The future belongs to those who prepare for it — and that preparation begins today. 

Book a free consultation and find out how Sherpany can future-proof your board today.