The Role of Advisory Boards in Building Robust Governance Systems

In this Executive Insights webinar, Advisory Board Centre founder, Louise Broekman, and CEO and Executive Director, Udo Doring, explored the role of advisory boards in building robust governance systems.

We’ve summarised the key takeaways from the session below, and shared access to the full play back recording for those of you who weren’t able to join us. 

5 key takeaways from our Executive Insights webinar

1. The advisory board’s function and scope should be crystal clear

Lay the groundwork for success — set out the board’s scope right from the establishment phase. To avoid confusion, clearly define what topics are on the table and what are “off-limits”. This will strengthen the board’s effectiveness.

2. Who’s making the decisions? Governance vs. advisory boards

It’s surprising how often people mistakenly believe they are on a governance board, when they are actually on an advisory board — and vice versa. The function of an advisory board is about problem-solving, not decision-making. The advisory board helps an organisation tackle challenges, but ultimately, the decision-making authority lies with the governance board.

3. Flexible by design — a key pillar of advisory board value

Advisory boards are inherently flexible; they can be created and disbanded, evolving over time based on an organisation’s needs. They may shift from providing advice on topical needs (such as digital transformation, cybersecurity, or geopolitics) to more general strategic guidance as the organisation grows and changes.

4. Avoiding the echo chamber

External advisors bring diverse perspectives from different markets and sectors, helping organisations avoid an echo chamber and fostering open-minded dialogue about challenges. But there’s no strict rule; Udo described a case study of a global pharmaceutical company that formed a Digital Transformation Advisory Board, appointing an internal executive as chair. This executive’s emotional intelligence, profound organisational knowledge, and authority were key assets in facilitating effective dialogue.

5. Direct Communication on the Path to Governance

When outputs from the advisory board are reported directly to the governance board, it ensures that feedback remains unfiltered. This direct line of communication highlights the advisory board’s relevance, fostering respect for its role in shaping long-term strategy and planning.

Strong governance is the backbone of a resilient, ethical and thriving organisation. We look forward to continuing these valuable discussions as we collectively shape the future of advisory board best practice.

Keen to learn more? Watch our webinar replay for more detailed insights.

Does your organisation need support in enhancing your governance systems?

We actively partner with organisations to enhance advisory board activities. Our Advisory+ team supports organisations and government bodies with scoping and establishing best practice advisory boards, undertaking board reviews, board recruitment, and mentoring. Learn more about how we can help you find greater impact from your governance systems — reach out to us for support.

About the Advisory Board Centre

The Advisory Board Centre is the global professional body for the advisory sector. We work collectively with our members to raise the standard of the global advisory sector – driving value for professionals and the organisations they serve.

With members in over 30 countries, the Advisory Board Centre is the leading authority on advisory board best practice and is the only organisation globally that provides certification for advisory board chairs via the Certified Chair™ Executive Program.

Through our Advisory+ service we support organisations and government bodies with scoping and establishing best practice advisory boards, undertaking board reviews, board recruitment, and mentoring. Learn more about how we can help you find greater impact from your governance systems.

To learn more about best practice advisory boards, you are invited to access complimentary resources including:

ABF101 Advisory Board Best Practice Framework™

State of the Market Global Report