With increasing numbers of senior people professionals sitting on boards as non-executive directors (NEDs), it’s no surprise that many HR leaders have aspirations of building a portfolio career of NED roles. But while chairs are becoming more open to those from HR backgrounds joining boards, getting a NED role remains a competitive and challenging process.

So, what should you consider when deciding whether a NED role is for you? How do you find a suitable role and how can you make an impact from day one? We’ve spoken to board-level headhunters and HR leaders who have landed NED roles and have put together some recommendations to help you set yourself up for success.

While our insights are from the perspectives of UK senior leaders and headhunters, they should be applicable wherever you are based.