“When our new Group Board had been operating for some 9 months we wanted an external perspective that the Board was fulfilling it’s function as a collective and the Chair and individual Board members were performing. We had no hesitation in approaching EMA who are very much in tune with our business and our direction of travel. The “Beyond Compliance Project” involved a review of Board documentation, updating Board and Chair skills and competencies. In addition, EMA designed questionnaires capturing the insights of both the Chair, Chief Executive, Leadership Team and individual Board Members. The EMA team’s analysis and observations were objective and constructive.

They offered practical suggestions for improvements, based on best practice and her broad governance experience. Our appraisal forms were redesigned and Pauline Drissell, having observed a Board meeting, supported the Chair in appraising Board Members. All our Members found this dialogue positive and they have a clear sense of their strengths and development needs. Moreover, we have the assurance that we are complying with the HCA’s Code, a Board development plan, an updated skills matrix, and we are better informed about Board succession planning.”

“Overall I think the Chair and Board Member recruitment has been a very well run, thorough and researched process – from initial discussions, through the advertisements, short-listing and final interviews whilst the Panel proved excellent.
Also much personal appreciation to Pauline (and Nina and Ian!). The administration has been excellent, the advice courteously, carefully and objectively given with much good humour and understanding of our needs and where we need to get to whilst the venue arrangements and timings have been impeccable. A great team effort. Thank you all.”