International Professional Management Training

17/09/2025

30/07/2025

The distinction between successful and unsuccessful directors often lies in their mindset. Successful directors understand that their executive experience contributes significant value to the boards they join. They recognize that joining a board represents a new phase in their careers, prompting them to invest in the skills necessary for their success.

It is unfortunate when directors seek help only after several years in their board roles, during which they fail to stay current and fully contribute. Some may build a reputation as being past their prime, relying solely on a polished resume instead of actively adding value. This realization often leads to the conclusion that a sustainable career in boardrooms may not be attainable.

Directors who take advantage of their available time to enhance their governance knowledge, refine their mentoring and chairing abilities, and develop their director skills tend to thrive. They manage to remain effective and relevant even as their roles evolve. In my experience, I have seen individuals in their eighties who outperformed much younger colleagues because they combined their extensive experience with a genuine curiosity and a commitment to ongoing learning.

A critical indicator of potential failure is the belief that prior experience alone guarantees future success. Likewise, discussing plans to ease back, step down, or focus on personal interests may undermine a director's image of diligence and trustworthiness. In contrast, those who actively seek to reskill and continue their service are often in higher demand on boards.

11/07/2025

24/02/2025

How can directors increase productivity?

There are no easy answers to this question because there is a lot to consider:

1. **Labour Productivity**: Understanding and improving the efficiency with which labour is utilized.
2. **Labour to Capital Ratio**: Examining the balance between labour and capital in providing products and services. For instance, why does the United States tend to be more capital-intensive than many other countries? What obstacles inhibit investments in other nations? Could these challenges be attributed to the availability of inexpensive labour?
3. **Value Addition**: Analysing the interplay between strategic value and transactional value that directors contribute through their work.
4. **Labour Market Rigidity**: Considering the inflexibility in the labour market and its impact on productivity.
5. **Barriers to Workforce Participation**: Identifying obstacles such as housing and childcare that may prevent increased workforce engagement.
6. **Cultural Preferences of Directors**: Acknowledging variations in ambition and a willingness to challenge the status quo, as well as choices regarding vocational pathways versus university education, and the ongoing pursuit of professional development (CPD).
7. **Immigration and Emigration Dynamics**: Evaluating the challenges related to the recognition of qualifications and experience acquired in different jurisdictions.
8. **Workforce Demographics**: Assessing factors related to the age and experience of the workforce.

We would love to hear your ideas on increasing
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18/02/2025

Stagnant stock market and changes in the interest rates are having a dramatic impact on pension fund performance and their ability to fund future liabilities. To ensure sufficient resources are available for retirements involve a complex set of decisions and assumptions on asset returns, interest rates, inflation rates and future salary growth.
Since inflation is potentially expected to rise in many economies, pension funds are increasingly searching to invest across different asset classes including real estate to hedge against the threat of rising prices.

This IPMT Pension Fund Finance, Sustainable Investment and Risk Management training course focuses on pension fund financing, investment and investment style, asset allocation, performance of their portfolios with particular emphasis on private equity firms. It aims to address many of the current pension issues from both the asset and liability perspectives to give you a holistic appreciation of the complex issues involved. Participants will learn how portfolio theory can be applied to replicate pension fund investment strategy.

06/01/2025

Many boards globally rely on SharePoint or Microsoft Teams for the sharing and storage of their board papers. While these platforms serve a purpose, they often fall short of offering the enhanced features that truly set board portals apart from general document management systems.

Consider, for example, the ability to provide a redacted version of documents to a board member with a conflict of interest while granting full access to all other members. This capability is a defining characteristic of dedicated board portals and highlights the importance of selecting the right tools for effective governance.

As business activity ramps up, we encourage you to take some time to explore the websites of various board portal providers. By examining the diverse services they offer, you'll gain valuable insights into their importance for efficient board operations. Many sites feature engaging videos showcasing their platforms in action, allowing you to see first-hand how these solutions can enhance your board's effectiveness.

You don’t need to commit to purchasing a portal immediately. However, understanding what these providers have created to solve common challenges can empower you to respond effectively if similar issues arise on your board.

Today is the first Monday of the new year. This makes it a perfect moment to reflect on your goals and strategize for success ahead.

IPMT wishes you a rewarding experience in guiding your company's governance throughout 2025!

20/11/2024

Recognizing the distinct roles of Executive Directors (EDs) and Non-Executive Directors (NEDs) is essential for fostering effective governance. Both NED's and ED's are:

- Are bound by the same obligations under the Companies Act 2006 (Sections 171-177)

- Are equally recognized at Companies House

- Carry similar responsibilities and liabilities

Yet, the unique contributions of each to the Board are invaluable. NEDs play a pivotal role in providing independent oversight, offering constructive challenges to strategy, and injecting a wealth of external expertise. They serve as a supportive sounding board for the executive team, ensuring that decisions are made thoughtfully while safeguarding the long-term interests of the company.

If you are on the board and if you wish to harness the full potential of your Board, you, as an executive and other senior management within the board need to acknowledge and value the insights that NEDs bring. Embracing their contributions can lead to a more cohesive Board that delivers amazing results.