The United States' Premiere Accredited Independent Director Certification
Let's TalkDemonstrate your commitment as an Independent Director
With thousands of Independent Director (ID) roles becoming available annually across the United States, and a competition ratio of 5-10 candidates per coveted position, how can you ensure that you stand out from the crowd? How can recruiters and businesses be certain that you have the skills, knowledge and leadership experience required to thrive in this high-stakes role?
Actuate is the only organization that offers an Independent Director Certification complete with ILM accreditation and licensed credentials, setting you apart by demonstrating your dedication to governance, excellence, and strategic leadership.
Meticulously designed for both established and aspiring Independent Directors, this qualification aligns with the highest standards of U.S. corporate governance. It equips you with essential skills to navigate intricate board dynamics, validates your understanding of fiduciary responsibilities, and highlights your mastery of the behavioral competencies critical to making impactful board contributions while sustaining organizational success.
Get Certified. Get Accredited. Get Noticed.
Achieve Certified Independent Director Status
Demonstrate your commitment to the highest standards of governance, exhibit your skills and professionalism, gain competitive edge.Obtain a Prestigious ILM Qualification
Awarded by The City and Guilds of London Institute, which was founded in 1878 and is incorporated by Royal Charter.Enhance Your Credibility and Competitive Edge
Alumni may incorporate digital credentials into their professional toolkit and showcase their achievements across multiple platforms and profiles.Download Your Program Prospectus
Certification Program Overview
Essential Independent Director Skills
Effective Independent Directors require more than technical expertise to excel in the boardroom. This module focuses on developing the soft skills crucial for navigating complex board dynamics, such as communication, negotiation, and strategic influence. Emphasis is placed on maintaining independence, objectivity, and a solutions-focused mindset while being a strategic sounding board for the executive team.
Learning Objectives:
- Enhance communication and negotiation skills to contribute more effectively to board discussions.
- Understand how to provide constructive, independent oversight and support without encroaching on executive functions.
Corporate Governance & Fiduciary Responsibilities
Corporate governance is central to the Independent Director role. This module explores the frameworks that IDs use to ensure accountability, transparency, and ethical oversight in the boardroom, emphasising compliance with key ESG, DEI, and fiduciary regulations. Participants will also explore how effective governance practices drive sustainable business growth, making IDs instrumental in promoting a culture of integrity.
Learning Objectives:
- Understand the core principles of corporate governance and their role in promoting accountable, ethical and transparent decision-making in line with key ESG, DEI and fiduciary responsibilities.
- Explore how IDs can influence governance structures to support long-term, sustainable business success.
Risk Management & Strategic Oversight
Independent Directors play a critical role in balancing risk and strategy to ensure organizational resilience and sustainable growth. This module equips participants with the tools to identify, evaluate, and manage both immediate and long-term risks in alignment with regulatory demands. Participants will also learn to provide proactive governance that fosters innovation while safeguarding organizational interests in a dynamic market environment.
Learning Objectives:
- Learn to assess regulatory, financial, and operational risks from a governance perspective and understand their implications for long-term sustainability.
- Develop skills to influence strategic decisions that drive innovation while safeguarding your organization’s future.
Board-Level Finance
As an Independent Director, understanding financial performance is critical for providing oversight and ensuring sustainability. This module equips IDs with the knowledge to analyze financial statements, evaluate budgets, and oversee financial risks within regulatory frameworks. Participants will learn to assess an organization’s financial health through strategic questioning and contribute to financial decision-making at the board level.
- Develop the skills to analyze key financial reports, ensuring alignment with the organization’s strategic and regulatory objectives.
- Gain expertise in financial oversight, including risk assessment, cash flow management, budget scrutiny, and long-term financial planning.
Digital & AI Governance
In an era of rapid technological change, Independent Directors must understand the implications of digital transformation on business operations and risk management. This module delves into critical areas such as AI governance and data privacy, with particular emphasis on ethical technology practices. Participants will stay at the forefront of technological advancements, gaining the skills to help organizations harness emerging technologies for innovation while effectively managing risks.
Learning Objectives:
- Understand how emerging technologies, including AI, impact board-level decisions.
- Develop the ability to evaluate and oversee technology strategies that balance innovation, compliance, and risk management.
Coaching Skills for Independent Directors
Independent Directors play a vital role in supporting and guiding executive teams. To excel in this capacity, they need essential coaching skills such as active listening and powerful questioning. These techniques enable them to navigate boardroom dynamics, extract key information efficiently, and challenge assumptions constructively. This module equips participants with the tools to inspire open dialogue, uncover critical insights, and interpret underlying subtexts, enhancing their ability to make well-informed contributions at the board level.
Learning Objectives:
- Develop the ability to ask powerful, strategic questions that reveal deeper insights and uncover critical information.
- Master active listening techniques to identify underlying issues, encourage transparency, and ensure impactful communication within the boardroom.
Structure & Assessment
Induction
To get started on your certification journey, first select your preferred enrolment date. Next, schedule your certification welcome call to kick things off.
Once that's done, you'll gain access to your Learning Management System and be assigned your personal Qualification Support Agent. Your agent will then assist you in booking your selected module dates, ensuring a smooth pathway on your certification journey.
Module Delivery
The Essential Independent Director Skills module is available to you via on-demand content.
All additional modules are delivered via half-day virtual workshop with the respective module facilitator.
Practical Assessment
Upon completing each module, you will participate in a virtual assessment designed to help you reflect on and demonstrate your learning.
In your final module, our ILM-approved trainers will guide you through a practical assessment to successfully finalize your certification.
Graduation
Upon completing your program, you will receive an invitation to your graduation event and certification presentation, celebrating alongside your fellow graduates.
At this event, you will be awarded your ILM certificate, along with your digital program certificate and digital credentials, enabling you to showcase your achievement as an Accredited, Certified Independent Director.
Upcoming Enrolment Dates
Maintaining Your Credentials
Your Certified Independent Director status provides you with your licensed credentials and membership access to continuous learning and professional development through your Learning Portal, in addition to:
Access to an annual Resume or LinkedIn profile update provided by our specialist Writing Team:
An Independent Director resume is more than a list of your past positions: it’s a strategic document showcasing your ability to provide exceptional organizational guidance. Our specialist team will review, provide feedback and craft this invaluable asset, demonstrating your readiness to drive organizational success.
Exclusive Events
Free entry to our best-in-class learning and networking events, providing unique opportunities for growth and development – including our exclusive ID Quarterly Update briefing.
20% Discount
Across our course catalogue and ancillary products.
Thriving Community
A diverse network of aspiring and experienced board leaders allowing you to forge connections and gain invaluable insights.
Certified Independent Director credentials may only be held by those who have both a current membership, renewable at $799 per annum, and are in their first year post-graduation or have completed the annual post-graduation refresher assessment, demonstrating their ongoing commitment to their role.
Course Fees & Application
$6000
Your course fees are inclusive of module delivery, networking sessions, access to online learning materials and support, assessment fees, graduation event, membership fee and your digital credential license.
Payment plans may be available subject to status, to discuss please arrange a call or alternatively you can submit an enquiry below…
Meet the Faculty
Ruth Odih IEMA – Global
Area of expertise
Mentor and Facilitator
About Ruth
Ruth is a respected authority in corporate governance. As a faculty member at the Corporate Governance Institute and an educator with Duke Corporate Education, she combines academic rigour with practical experience to nurture the future cadre of Non-Executive Directors (NEDs) and Independent Directors (IDs).
As a member of the NED Network Advisory Board, Ruth plays a crucial role in supporting senior executives transitioning into NED roles and keeps seasoned directors informed on the latest boardroom trends. With a rich background spanning multiple industries, Ruth offers clients invaluable guidance on their NED journeys, providing actionable insights into risk management and the development of effective board-level strategies.
A key member of the Secretariat Team at Centrica plc., Ruth draws on extensive experience across domestic and international corporate landscapes. She has delivered essential governance support to directors and boards in catering, oil and gas, private equity, financial services, and energy.
Ruth’s understanding of the qualities that define effective NEDs and IDs is enhanced by her dedication to diversity and inclusion. In addition to her professional achievements, Ruth serves as a community-focused trustee and is engaged on the leadership and insights committees at TIDE Taskforce. She holds both a degree and a master’s in law.
I attended the Corporate Governance Course through Actuate Global. Great presentation from the host, Ruth. It was excellent! Lots of interesting useful information and good conversation between attendees.
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Jeremy Canning – Global
Area of expertise
Mentor and Facilitator
About Jeremy
Jeremy brings a wealth of expertise as a Board Executive, Board Advisor, Independent Director and Non-Executive Director across global PLCs and successful start-ups. Leveraging 25+ years of business leadership experience globally, he equips clients with cultural and commercial awareness, fostering authentic leadership, innovative thinking, and strategic decision-making skills.
Jeremy challenges clients to think differently, embrace their strengths, and cultivate a mindset that fuels success. He offers tailored techniques, tools, and perspectives that drive significant personal and organisational development. His services include individual and team leadership coaching, executive & career development, group facilitation, and bespoke coaching programmes.
Jeremy’s practical approach is backed by extensive firsthand experience and a strong network of professional connections. Since 2013, he has been a Board/NED and C-suite Career & Performance Coach, working with organisations from Fortune 500 companies to ambitious start-ups. Jeremy also coaches individuals, including CEOs, Board members, aspiring executives, and prominent personalities.
A self-described “positive maverick,” Jeremy is dedicated to revolutionising how leaders and organisations manage relationships with employees, suppliers, customers and communities. He champions accountability, governance and environmental responsibility.
My mentoring session with Jeremy Canning was an incredibly insightful experience. Jeremy's ability to distill complex concepts into practical advice was remarkable, and his guidance felt tailored to my specific goals and circumstances. Throughout the session, Jeremy shared actionable strategies and valuable perspectives on navigating professional challenges and opportunities. His expertise in leadership and governance was evident as he offered clear, thoughtful advice grounded in real-world experience. What I appreciated most was his genuine interest in understanding my ambitions and providing guidance that felt both achievable and inspiring. His approachable style and willingness to engage in a meaningful dialogue made the session not only productive but also empowering. I left the conversation with a renewed sense of direction and clarity on how to take the next steps in my professional journey. I highly recommend Jeremy's mentorship to anyone seeking expert guidance and practical advice to grow and succeed in their career.
Abdulkader Thomas – Global
Area of expertise
Facilitator
About Abdulkader
Abdulkader has over 40 years of diversified financial services experience in Kuwait, Bahrain, New York, London, Los Angeles and Washington, D.C. He has extensive experience with financial start-ups. He teaches finance at IE Business School (Madrid)
As the general manager of a foreign bank branch in New York, he was responsible for securing the first US banking regulatory approvals of alternative financial instruments for mortgaging and installment sales as banking instruments as well as insured profit sharing deposits. Abdulkader worked on two securitization projects with Freddie Mac for alternative home finance products.
Along with his team at SHAPE®, Abdulkader works on projects that include launching de novo banks, financial sector start-ups, and, increasingly, technology sector start-ups (FinTech and EnviroTech). Clients include a diversified universe of financial institutions and technology players from North America, the MENA region, Southeast Asia, Africa, and Europe.
He is the co-author of Structuring Islamic Finance Transactions (Euromoney 2005), Islamic Bonds (Euromoney 2004), Sukuk (Sweet & Maxwell 2009), and Managing Funds Flow Risks and Derivatives: Applications in Islamic Institutions (Sweet & Maxwell 2012) and Housing the Nation (Cagamas 2013).
Abdulkader has has acted as a member of the international advisory board of the Securities Commission of Malaysia. He chairs the Advisory Committee of Experts at The Alternative Bank (Nigeria) and London based FinTech, Algbra. He served as an independent director of Alkhabeer Capital in Jeddah. At Alkhabeer, he chaired subsidiaries in Bahrain and the Dubai International Financial Centre, served on the Nomination and Remuneration Committee, and Audit Committee (which he chaired twice during his tenure). Abdulkader now chairs Alkhabeer’s Board Risk Committee. He was previously a non-executive director of Strategic Ratings (London).
Shabnam Mokhtar Thomas – Global
Area of expertise
Facilitator
About Shabnam
Shabnam has over 18 years of experience in financial services. Currently, she spearheads research and development activities at SHAPE®. Some of the projects that she managed include:
- Credit Guarantee Scheme delivered by a Scandinavian development fund in Somalia.
- Research on Social Underwriting.
- Research and support for a bankruptcy case in the US and a criminal case in Canada related to a financial service providers.
- Product development for a multilateral development bank’s trade finance arm in GCC.
- Analysis of a revenue based financing platform in Australia.
- Analysis of ETFs and structured products for GCC hedge fund manager.
- Review and enhancement of Fatwa on Carbon Trading for a London based global energy trading firm.
Besides analysis to develop novel financing products in different markets, Shabnam also manages strategic and business plan formulation for launching of Islamic businesses. She also structures and delivers customized trainings for clients covering full spectrum of financing activities. Training footprint covers banking, capital markets, product risk profiles, front line training and financial reporting for clients in ASEAN, GCC, Africa, US and Europe. With a global clientele experience, Shabnam brings implementation knowledge taking into account the business context, regulation and market views.
Shabnam was appointed as the Securities Commission – Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies Islamic Finance Visiting Fellow for 2021/2022. She is interested in multi-disciplinary research especially in the area of impact investing, sustainability, innovation and technology. At Oxford, she focused on Blue Economy, Impact Investing and lessons for Islamic Finance.
Formerly, she was heading the capital markets research for the International Shariah Research Academy (ISRA). Her focus area was case study based research projects in the Sukuk market. Her prior positions include adjunct professor of finance at both DePaul University (Chicago) and IE Business School (Madrid) as well as lecturer of accounting, finance and bank management at University Putra Malaysia. Shabnam was also recently appointed to the AAOIFI Examination Review Committee.
Dr. Ursula Stroh – Asia Pacific
Area of expertise
Executive Coach and Facilitator
About Dr. Ursula
Dr. Ursula Stroh is a strategy and change consultant and trainer with clients from various sectors, with a strong expertise in the tertiary education sector. She holds a Ph.D. in Communication and Change Management in complex environments. Ursula’s academic career stretches back thirty-five plus years at several internationally renowned universities and includes extensive academic management experience, such as Head of School at two universities before she ventured full time into industry.
Former roles include being Senior Change Communication Manager for UNSW and Communications Director at GE ANZ. Ursula also worked for IBM in various roles including Internal Communication Manager and speechwriter for the CEO of IBM ANZ, Change Management Consultant, and Executive Communication Manager for leading brand clients such as Qantas and Westpac.
Throughout her industry career, Ursula has been teaching Leadership and Management part-time as Adjunct Faculty in programmes such as the MBA and General Managers’ programs of AGSM, MGSM, and UTS.
Ursula is certified as a Change practitioner, Leadership and Life Coach, Well-being and human behaviour expert, and Yoga instructor.
Linda Aiyer ICF MCC – UK, Africa & Americas
Area of expertise
Executive Coach and Facilitator
About Linda
Linda fosters a safe, supportive, and collaborative coaching environment that empowers clients to engage in focused thinking, reflective learning, and even unlearning to achieve their personal and professional goals.
She allows space for clients to introspect and deepen their self-understanding while providing valuable insights from a coach’s standpoint. Through these transformative sessions, clients gain fresh perspectives, master vital self-management skills, and build the confidence to take control of their development, unlocking their true potential.
Drawing from a comprehensive toolkit that includes Integral Theory, the Enneagram (Personality Profiling), Relationship and Systems Thinking, Mind-Body Connection, Leadership Maturity Stages, Dare to Lead™ principles and various Personal Mastery models, Linda facilitates profound shifts in client thinking, behaviour, and actions.
With over nine years of experience and more than 2,500 coaching hours, Linda is an international coach who has supported clients across the globe, from Africa and the Middle East to Europe, India, and the U.S. Her diverse clientele ranges from young adults and mid-level managers to senior executives and those transitioning into retirement.
Linda was truly exceptional. The time that I spent with her enabled me to successfully become a director of a brilliant organisation that has changed how I do business. Linda was able to assist me in addressing reality, shifting my mindset, and adapting to achieve my goals. Overall, the experience has already made a valuable difference.
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Emma Calvert ICF ACC – Global
Area of expertise
Executive Coach and Facilitator
About Emma
Emma is a distinguished accredited coach with a track record of transforming organisational leadership and management. With extensive experience building internal coaching frameworks, she has successfully implemented impactful programmes that drive leadership excellence and team performance across industries.
Emma’s coaching practice is versatile, engaging professionals at every career stage – from rising leaders to C-suite executives – steering organisations through complex change. Her board and executive-level expertise enables her to work effectively with individuals and teams, fostering growth and resilience in high-stakes environments.
Guided by a philosophy of exploration, Emma customises her coaching to each client’s unique learning style and mindset, using a blend of practical tools and strategies to deliver tangible results. She has a reputation for being “relaxed and supportive, with the capacity to challenge,” pushing clients beyond their comfort zones while remaining empathetic.
Emma is also a recognised Neurodiversity Coaching specialist. She collaborates with organisations, managers, and individuals to unlock the strengths of neurodiversity, promoting inclusive practices that drive professional success. Emma’s commitment to inclusivity and focus on maximising individual potential set her apart as a trusted advisor, guiding clients through their most challenging career moments with care and expertise.
I've been working with my coach, Emma Calvert, for several months, and she's been absolutely fantastic! She knows exactly how to motivate me, and exactly what it is that I need to achieve, to make the desired progress. Working with her has been an absolute pleasure, and I would recommend the services of Actuate Global to anyone wanting to establish or progress their Non-Exec Director Career.
Gwyn Thomas FCIPD, CMgr, ChMC, FCMI – Global
Area of expertise
Executive Coach, Supervisor and Assessor
About Gwyn
Gwyn is an accomplished Professional Coach, Coach Supervisor, Trainer, Assessor, IQA, and Chartered Management Consultant, combining rich experience from the public, private, charitable, voluntary, and education sectors.
Informed by over 30 years in the Police Service, where he attained the rank of Acting Assistant Chief Constable, Gwyn has held senior academic positions at the University of South Wales and the National Policing Improvement Agency. His distinguished career as an ethical leader allows him to design, develop, and deliver transformative leadership, coaching, and mentoring programmes that enhance organisational performance in the UK and beyond.
Known for his dynamic and innovative approach, Gwyn excels in guiding clients through complex, customer-focused improvement and learning processes. He is dedicated to advancing diversity in leadership development and empowering individuals to unlock their potential through customised personal and professional growth strategies.
Gwyn’s expertise spans Leadership, Coaching Supervision, Executive Coaching, Life Coaching, Workplace Strategy Coaching, Leadership Mentoring, Management Consultancy, Organisational Change, Strategic Management, Learning & Development, Assessment & IQA, Training of Trainers, and Course Design, Delivery & Evaluation.
The wealth of knowledge Gwyn shared, be it through invaluable coaching frameworks or indispensable coaching tips, consistently surpassed my expectations. But what truly sets him apart is his commitment to candid, constructive feedback. His insights have not only honed my coaching process but have also instilled a profound confidence in my abilities. His mentorship extends beyond mere supervision; it's a masterclass in excellence. For anyone seeking a coaching supervisor who will champion your growth, challenge you to be your best, and stand by you every step of the way, look no further than Gwyn Thomas. My journey would have been markedly different without him, and I am profoundly grateful for every moment of guidance. Thank you, Gwyn Thomas, for being a true pillar of strength and wisdom in my coaching journey.
Pasquale Mazzuca – Europe
Area of expertise
Executive Coach and Facilitator
About Pasquale
Pasquale is an esteemed Executive Coach, Leadership Development Expert, and Consultant with a rich background spanning over three decades. His expertise enfolds Recruitment and Assessment, Organisational Development, Training Needs Analysis, and Team Coaching.
Throughout his career, Pasquale has specialised in empowering leadership teams and nurturing high-performance individuals. Recognised for his remarkable achievements, he has significantly enhanced senior leadership team effectiveness by more than 30% and amplified team engagement levels by over 20%.
Pasquale possesses an exceptional talent for identifying leadership development gaps and formulating tailored strategies to cultivate skills across diverse cohorts. He finds great fulfilment in facilitating pivotal “ah-ha!” moments that enable individuals and teams to unlock their potential.
Pasquale’s impact is profound. His clients consistently report increased clarity in their leadership roles, enhanced decision-making abilities, and a more cohesive team environment. By aligning individual goals with organisational objectives, Pasquale helps professionals drive meaningful change and obtain outstanding results. His strategic approach boosts performance metrics and fosters a culture of continuous improvement, ensuring long-term success.
With Pasquale Mazzuca... I'm really excited to start on my non-exec director journey and build on my experience to date. I left our session with a huge amount to reflect on but also hugely motivated about what it is I can offer as an NED, and some great tools and insights to understand my 'Why'. A bit of a lightbulb moment thinking about belief systems, curiosity, energy, and your freedom to choose to refuse to give in to limiting beliefs about yourself.
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Start your Certified Independent Director Journey Today
