Episode 03: Exploring The Void: Preparing for a Transition Into a Board Role with Donna McMaster

Non Executive Director Insider Insights

Transitioning into any new role requires learning new things, but how do you prepare for a role that operates in a totally different arena to any other role you have held previously? The delineation between the board and the executive team can be a minefield for new Non Executive Directors.

In fact, the shift from an executive position to a board role can feel like starting over again and you might even find yourself struggling to know how and when to apply your executive skills and experience to board discussions.

In this episode of Non Executive Director Insider Insights, we’re joined by Donna McMaster who at the time of this recording was serving on three boards; Gale Pacific Ltd, YMCA Services Pty Ltd and Dandenong Market Pty Ltd and also held the role of Chair role in some of various board committees of these organisations. She was also an Executive Advisor to the consumer and retail sector and the proud winner of the Telstra Business Women of the Year award.

Her transition into a board role initially caused her to reflect and question her value at board level. She quickly discovered how to contribute effectively and shares her insights today so you too can hit the ground running.

Donna shares her story and how meeting great mentors, working with amazing people, and being a life-long learner have all contributed to her success.

In this episode of Insider Insights, we explore:

• How to handle the transition from an executive to a Non Executive role
• The common challenges in the Non Executive Director role
• Advice for Executives transitioning from executive roles to board roles

Any form of board transition will present challenges, and learning as much as you can gives added support to the new career you’re embarking on.

If you haven’t listened to our previous episode on Understanding When To Take On Board Roles with Sandra Dodds, check out Episode 02.