Overview
Imagine a board meeting where every voice is heard, decisions are made efficiently, and everyone leaves feeling energised and aligned. Effective chairing isn't just about running meetings; it's about fostering leadership, driving results, and creating a culture of engagement. This course provides you with the confidence and practical tools to make that vision a reality.
Effective meetings are crucial for efficient and productive business operations. This course equips Chairs and those who support them with the essential understanding of the Chair's foundational role and responsibilities. While designed primarily for Chairs, this course is equally valuable for those who support or advise Chairs, including Company Secretaries, board administrators, and governance professionals.
Course costs (ex VAT)
Non-member - £949
Professional subscriber - £849
Member - £749
A discount is available for registered charities, please email training@cgi.org.uk.
For any related enquiries please contact us at events@cgi.org.uk, or call us at +44 207 612 7012
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
- Understand the fundamental purpose and importance of effective board, management, or committee meetings.
- Clarify the distinct roles and responsibilities of board members and the Chair, fostering a collaborative environment.
- Identify the key qualities and motivations behind effective chairing.
- Develop basic agendas and meeting plans that promote focused discussion.
- Demonstrate core leadership and communication skills essential for the Chair.
- Initiate self-reflection on their potential chairing style and areas for foundational growth.
Audience
This course is ideal for:
- Current and aspiring Chairs seeking to establish a strong foundation in their leadership and meeting management skills.
- Board members or senior executives aiming to gain a deeper understanding of the Chair's foundational role and contribute more effectively in meetings.
- Company Secretaries, governance professionals, and board support staff who want to improve their understanding of the Chair's function and provide optimal support.
- Anyone involved in preparing for, or understanding the dynamics of, board-level meetings across all sectors (listed and private companies, charities, public sector, and the NHS).
You will also receive:
- A delegate pack containing comprehensive course notes and presentation slides
- A certificate to show you have attended the course
- 6 hours credit towards your Continuing Professional Development (CPD)
- 6 months complimentary professional subscription of The Chartered Governance Institute UK & Ireland. This includes a subscription to G+C Magazine as well as access to briefings, discounts and our knowledge base.
Proficiency Level -
Ideal for new or aspiring Chairs, or anyone looking to understand the core responsibilities of the Chair.
Programme
Understanding Board Purpose: Clarifying why board meetings matter, what makes them effective, and how chairs shape outcomes.
Stakeholder Awareness: Mapping roles, responsibilities, and motivations of board members, with emphasis on governance and fiduciary duties.
Defining the Chair’s Role: Exploring the qualities, behaviours, and ethical responsibilities of an effective Chair.
Authority vs. Influence: Reflecting on leadership styles and the Chair’s impact on board culture and decision-making.
Strategic Agenda Building: Learning how to design clear, outcome-driven agendas and manage pre-meeting information flow.
Time & Clarity Management: Structuring meetings for efficiency and focus.
Leading Discussions: Practicing core communication techniques including listening, articulation, and rapport-building.
Inclusive Participation: Encouraging engagement and managing group dynamics.
Chairing Simulation: Applying foundational skills in a practical scenario with peer feedback.
Reflection & Action Planning: Consolidating learning and identifying areas for growth through structured reflection.
Competency framework
This course aligns to CGI’s competency framework: Emerging/Established
Use the competency framework to identify your strengths and areas for improvement in governance.
Course Leaders
