Building Your Governance Career 2026

Overview

REGISTRATION IS NOW CLOSED.

A governance professional can wear many hats, and having the right skill set to progress in your career is crucial for achieving success and enhancing job satisfaction. To build a career in governance a combination of education, skills, experience, networking, and a passion for promoting ethical practices and effective decision-making within organisations is required.

Who is this event for?

Join us for an empowering half-day summit designed exclusively for Graduates, new Associates, and early-career professionals venturing into the world of governance. Discover valuable insights and strategies to unleash your potential and pave a successful path in governance. Connect with like-minded peers, gain CPD points and build networks that will support your journey as emerging governance professionals.

For any related enquiries please contact us at events@cgi.org.uk, or call us at +44 (0)20 7580 4741

Programme

08:30

Registration, Refreshments & Networking

09:15

Welcome & Opening Remarks

Marco Murray, Director, Entity Compliance & Governance, EY

09:20

Pathways to Governance

There is no single route to becoming a governance professional. Panellists will share their career journeys and explore the different pathways into the profession, from graduate and trainee roles to career changes from other areas. The session will offer practical insights on gaining relevant experience, developing transferable skills, pursuing professional qualifications and identifying opportunities to build a successful career in governance.

Moderator:

Nick Ivory-Byrne FCG, Senior Corporate Governance Manager, Haleon plc

Speakers:

  • Lola Agboola, Deputy Company Secretary, Uber
  • Helen Williams, Head of PLC and RFB Governance, Lloyds Banking Group

 

10:00

Making an Impact: Skills and Behaviours for Success

Discover the practical skills and behaviours that help governance professionals make a positive and lasting impact. Panellists will share insights on communicating with confidence, building trusted relationships, demonstrating initiative and adapting your approach to different audiences and situations.

The session will provide practical advice on developing credibility, influencing effectively and showing the value you bring throughout your career.

Moderator: Jane Helleman, Manager - Entity Compliance Governance, EY

Speakers:

  • Kako Mavalla ACG, Chartered Governance Professional
  • Kerry Round FCG, Founder, Round Governance

10:40

Technology and your career

Explore how modern technology  is reshaping the workplace and creating new opportunities for career development. Panellists will share practical insights on using digital tools to work more effectively, build relevant skills and enhance professional impact, while considering the importance of sound judgement, responsible use and continuous learning in a rapidly evolving environment.

Moderator: Joe McManus FCG, Director, Entity Compliance & Governance, EY

Speakers: 

  • Sarah Knight FCG, Governance Transformation Lead, Together Money
  • Ruth Westley ACG, Interim Director of Corporate Governance, Ocado

11:20

Securing your next role
Take a practical look at the steps involved in securing your next role, whether you are seeking a promotion, moving into a new organisation or changing career direction.

Panellists will share advice on identifying suitable opportunities, presenting your experience effectively, building your professional network and preparing with confidence for applications and interviews.

The session will provide useful insights to help you navigate the recruitment process and make informed decisions about your next career move.


Moderator: Emily Climpson, Senior Consultant, Robert Walters

Speaker: Scott Brooker ACG, Company Secretary, Hames Fisher & Son

11:55

Closing Remarks
The Chartered Governance Institute

12:00

Lunch and Networking

13:00

Event Finishes