Serve on your first board

A director's legal duties generally arise when the appointment takes effect, although their scope depends on the governing law and the type of organisation. Advisory and informal roles may carry different obligations, so the mandate, confidentiality arrangements, conflicts and decision rights should be clear from the outset. Induction should begin promptly, particularly when important decisions may arise before you have received all the relevant papers.

Where to start

• Request the governing documents, recent board papers and minutes, committee terms of reference, delegation of authority, risk register and formal induction plan.
• Meet the chair, chief executive, finance lead, company secretary, committee chairs and relevant owners to understand their expectations and the principal matters requiring oversight.
• Plan visits, discussions and reading that will help you understand the organisation's people, operations, financial position and major decisions before they come to the board.

Ask yourself

• Can I explain the organisation's strategy, financial position, principal risks and division of authority without relying solely on management's summary?
• Have my appointment terms, declared conflicts, indemnity and insurance arrangements been confirmed in writing where applicable?
• Am I asking questions that improve the board's collective understanding of the issues before it?
• Do I understand any restrictions on dealing in the organisation's securities and the confidentiality obligations attached to board information?

What you keep Your first-hundred-days plan, induction documents and record of declared conflicts.

In practice Because new directors need adequate information to discharge their responsibilities from the outset, it may be appropriate to seek further information, request more time or obtain independent advice if an important decision arises before induction is complete.

Briefings for your first months

These briefings cover the responsibilities most likely to arise early in a first appointment. Choose the last two according to the ownership of the board you have joined.