Kathleen O'Donovan was the first female finance director of a FTSE 100 company and, if that is not enough to set her apart, she had achieved this by the age of 34. Since her appointment in 1991 as BTR's Finance Director, she has served as a non executive director (NED) at such household names as Prudential, the Bank of England and O2. So who better to talk to CWN about the skills needed to become a NED?

Kathleen is of the opinion that, for the woman that has the right skill set, NED opportunities exist. The question of course become ‘how does one get the right skill set?' and, perhaps even more key, ‘what is the skill set needed?'. Kathleen's shared her views on both of these subjects along with other fascinating insights. For example, a survey of executives on skills needed put accounting expertise and intellect pretty low down the list, but experience of running a business ranked very highly. In Kathleen's opinion the right experience is essential to make your CV stand out and she provided hints on how to achieve that CV.

While it may seem that AIM and private companies would be good ground to cut your teeth, Kathleen explained that these boards, perhaps more than any other, are looking for experienced NEDs to help the company go public. Kathleen believes that the right skill set and experience can be gained by volunteering for NED positions at non-for-profit and non-departmental government bodies and gave tips on seeking out such positions.

It is worth remembering, pointed out Kathleen, that it is not just who you know, but who knows you!

Our thanks go to Kathleen for her excellent presentation and to the London Capital Club for providing a first-rate venue for the event.

Natalie WinterFrost FIA CFA