The UK’s Premier Non-Executive Director Foundation Programme for New and Aspiring NEDs
Let's TalkYour First Step to Boardroom Success
Breaking into the elite world of board leadership takes more than ambition. It requires the right expertise.
The Actuate Non-Executive Director Foundation Programme is your gateway to governance excellence. This course equips you with essential board-level skills, including risk management, finance, and strategy, delivering high-impact, practical learning without the barriers of formal exams or excessive fees.
With just 53,000 NED roles available across the UK and over 500,000 professionals competing for these coveted positions, standing out is essential. Traditionally, aspiring NEDs spent years gaining informal experience through voluntary board roles. This programme changes that, giving you a recognised foundation in governance and fast-tracking your journey to board readiness.
Designed for ambitious professionals, the course is delivered by internationally recognised board leaders who provide real-world insights you can apply immediately. Whether you’re an aspiring NED or a senior executive looking to expand your influence, this flexible, cost-effective programme gives you the skills and confidence to secure your seat at the table.
Your boardroom journey starts today.
Get Skilled. Get Recognised. Get Ahead.
The Actuate Guarantee
No Exams, Just Expertise
Practical, expert-led learning tailored for busy professionals.Flexible, On-Demand and Virtual Access
Learn at your own pace, from anywhere.Elite Faculty, Real-World Insights
Taught by seasoned board leaders with deep governance experience.Exceptional Value
A cost-effective, high-impact route to the boardroom.Progress to Certified Status & Prestigious ILM Qualification
Awarded by The City and Guilds of London Institute, which was founded in 1878 and is incorporated by Royal Charter.Accelerate Your Path to the Boardroom
Develop the critical governance skills and confidence required to secure your first NED role without the need for years of informal or voluntary board experience.Download Your Programme Prospectus
Programme Overview
How It Works
- Enrol & Get Started – Begin your journey by enrolling, selecting your modules, and gaining immediate access to premium course materials and dedicated programme support.
- Flexible Learning Pathway – Complete one mandatory module and two elective modules, tailoring your learning experience to your professional goals.
- Engage with Industry Leaders – Participate in live Q&A sessions with distinguished experts, gaining real-world insights and practical knowledge.
- Earn Your Award – Upon completion, receive an Actuate Certificate of Completion and a Foundation Award digital credential, perfect for enhancing your CV and LinkedIn profile.
Mandatory: Fundamental Skills of the NED
Effective NEDs and governance experts need more than technical expertise; they require strong communication, negotiation, and leadership abilities. This module builds the soft skills necessary to influence stakeholders and challenge constructively while serving as a strategic partner to the C-suite.
Elevate your influence in the boardroom and offer valuable oversight.
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.
Elective: Corporate Governance
Corporate Governance is one of the core NED responsibilities. In this module, you will explore the frameworks NEDs use to ensure accountability, transparency, and ethical oversight in the boardroom. You will also learn to uphold effective governance practices while driving sustainable growth, promoting a culture of responsibility and integrity.
Shape governance practices that inspire integrity and long-term success.
Learning Objectives:
- Understand the core principles of corporate governance and their role in promoting ethical, transparent decision-making.
- Explore how NEDs can influence governance structures to support long-term, sustainable success.
Ruth Odih
Elective: Risk & Strategy
NEDs are instrumental in balancing risk and strategy. In this module, you will learn to identify and manage immediate and long-term risks through a governance lens, preparing to drive forward-thinking strategies that balance innovation and security in evolving markets. You will understand how NEDs can assess risk and ensure an organisation remains agile and resilient in changing conditions.
Guide strategic decisions that promote security and embrace innovation.
Learning Objectives:
- Learn to assess risk from a governance perspective and its impact on the business’s long-term sustainability.
- Understand how to influence strategic decisions that foster innovation while safeguarding the organisation’s future.
Ruth Odih
Elective: Board-Level Finance
Financial fluency is key for any NED. Understanding financial performance is critical for providing oversight and ensuring the organisation’s financial sustainability. This module equips you with the tools to analyse financial reports, scrutinise budgets, and evaluate financial risks with a view to long-term fiscal health. NEDs will gain the ability to ask the right questions and contribute confidently to financial decision-making at the board level.
Safeguard your organisation’s financial health with expert insights.
Learning Objectives:
- Develop the ability to analyse key financial reports, ensuring alignment with the organisation’s strategic objectives.
- Gain insight into financial oversight, including risk assessment, cash flow management, and long-term financial planning.
Abdulkader Thomas & Shabnam Mokhtar
Elective: Digital & AI Governance
As digital disruption and AI continue to reshape industries, NEDs must stay ahead in a tech-driven world, understanding the strategic implications of technology on business operations and risk management. This module keeps you ahead of digital trends, preparing you to lead on digital transformation, cybersecurity, and AI governance. It ensures NEDs can contribute to discussions on how to leverage technology for innovation while managing associated risks.
Oversee tech strategies that drive progress while managing risks.
Learning Objectives:
- Gain an understanding of how emerging technologies like AI impact board-level decisions.
- Learn to evaluate technology strategies that ensure both innovation and risk mitigation, supporting the company’s sustainable growth.
Sue Turner OBE
Course Structure
Induction
To begin your programme journey, first select your preferred enrolment date. Next, schedule your welcome call to get started.
Once this is complete, you'll receive access to your Learning Management System and course materials, along with a Personal Programme Support Agent. Your agent will guide you through booking your selected module dates, ensuring a seamless and structured learning experience.
Module Delivery
1. Fundamental NED Skills - On-demand
2. Corporate Governance - 1 x 1/2 day virtual workshop
3. Risk & Strategy - 1 x 1/2 day virtual workshop
4. Board-Level Finance- 1 x 1/2 day virtual workshop
5. Digital & AI Governance - 1 x 1/2 day virtual workshop
Live Q&A Sessions
We enhance your learning experience by offering exclusive live Q&A sessions with distinguished industry leaders. These interactive sessions provide a unique opportunity to gain firsthand insights from experienced board members and governance experts.
You will be able to ask questions and deepen your understanding of critical governance topics in a dynamic, discussion-led format. Designed to complement your learning, these sessions ensure you stay ahead of emerging trends and boardroom best practices while expanding your professional network.
Completion
Upon completing your programme, you will receive an Actuate Foundation Award Certificate of Completion, along with a digital Foundation Award, which can be incorporated into your LinkedIn and CV to showcase your achievement.
Upcoming Enrolment Dates
Upgrading Your Award
Your Path to Certified Status & Prestigious ILM Qualification
Your NED journey doesn’t have to end here. The Actuate Foundation Non-Executive Director Programme is your gateway to an elite, world-renowned qualification. This programme lays the groundwork in governance and leadership, preparing you to advance seamlessly onto Actuate’s Certified Non-Executive Director (NED) Qualification, accredited by the prestigious Institute of Leadership & Management (ILM) and endorsed by the City & Guilds of London Institute, a globally respected institution with a Royal Charter dating back to 1878.
By completing additional modules, you can earn this government-regulated, industry-recognised qualification.
For ambitious professionals seeking formal accreditation, the Certified NED Programme delivers live, expert-led boardroom training, 1-1 support, globally recognised certification, and a host of exclusive opportunities designed to elevate your governance credentials and career prospects, opening doors to the most prestigious board roles.
A Defining Investment in Your Future
Stepping into a board role without the right preparation can be daunting. Governance missteps carry serious consequences, and without a strong understanding of board dynamics, even the most experienced professionals may struggle to make an impact. This programme provides the strategic and practical expertise you need to confidently approach board responsibilities. Designed as a catalyst for career advancement, this programme delivers both immediate and enduring benefits
Career Benefits
Avoid Common Governance Pitfalls
Many professionals step into board roles unprepared, leading to costly mistakes. The programme adopts a structured approach to governance, helping you conquer boardroom challenges.Accelerate Your Journey as a Trusted Board Advisor
Rather than spending years gaining informal board experience, this programme fast-tracks your credibility and readiness to take on governance responsibilities.Immediate Return on Investment
The skills and insights gained in this programme can be applied immediately to enhance your decision-making and leadership effectiveness at senior levels.Course Fees & Application
£1995 (excl. VAT)
Your course fees are inclusive of all aspects of your learning experience, covering module delivery, live Q and A sessions, your Certificate of Completion, and digital Foundation Award.
Payment plans may be available subject to status, to discuss please arrange a call or alternatively you can submit an enquiry below…
What Our Clients Say
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.
From our news
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.
Sue Turner OBE, FRSA, MSc – Global
Area of expertise
AI Facilitator
About Sue
Sue Turner OBE is an accomplished Non-Executive Director and pioneer in the field of AI governance. As the AI facilitator at Actuate, she combines decades of expertise with cutting-edge insights into artificial intelligence, empowering executives and boards to navigate the evolving corporate governance landscape.
Sue’s leadership journey began when she became the youngest Regional Director of the Confederation of British Industry (CBI) in the South West. Later, her tenure as Director of Communications for The Bristol Port Company and CEO of Quartet Community Foundation cemented her C-suite expertise. Informed by roles across financial services, logistics, and charities, Sue is celebrated for her ability to integrate AI and data science with governance, driving innovation while ensuring ethical leadership.
As the founding director of AI Governance Limited and armed with an MSc in AI and Data Science, Sue now advises businesses, policymakers and executives on the responsible use of AI, providing practical guidance that helps organisations harness technology without compromising governance frameworks. Her global work includes advising on harmonising AI governance and serving as one of the first certified AI systems auditors. An internationally recognised thought leader, Sue has also delivered keynote speeches on topics such as the realities of AI and the intersection of philanthropy and technology.
In recognition of her commitment to social justice, Sue was awarded an OBE in 2021. Her passion for social impact, diversity, and inclusion is reflected in her multiple NED and Chair roles, where she has increased diversity and guided organisations through transformational growth. Excelling at the intersection of AI and governance, Sue empowers leaders to make forward-thinking decisions, ensuring they can leverage emerging technologies for long-term success.
Sue Turner gave an excellent course lecture with high level content and inclusive conversation revealing a rapidly evolving world of AI practice, policy, and risk to follow up on to aid personal development and career progression.
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 – 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.
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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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.
Take the first step toward boardroom success today.