Encouraging staff to speak up and stop harm can reduce legal and reputational risk—both for the organisation and its board members.

This month, Wendy McMillan and Mick Ord will join the global electronics company’s board as non-executive directors.

The gaming technology company has announced Reeb’s appointment as a new independent non-executive director, effective immediately.

Domenic De Lorenzo is to succeed Bill Ronald next year as chair of the global supplier of carbonated drinks.

She will join the housebuilding company’s board as a non-executive director with effect from 1 May next year.

From the new year, Brewis will become non-executive chair of the Nottingham-based fantasy war games producer.

Construction industry STEM ambassador Louise Hardy will join the board as a non-executive director and a member of its remuneration committee.

Helen Mahy CBE will join the board of the FTSE 250-listed renewable energy investment company next year as chair designate.

The non-executive director’s role is to both challenge and listen to management, agreed the panel of a recent webinar.

As boards respond to pressure for immediate results and compliance, a smart chair can help directors to focus on strategic, long-term success.