Tell us about your professional experience before discovering the Corporate Governance Institute.

I am a global CEO and Non-Executive Director with over 25 years of experience leading transformations across beauty, consumer, and tech-driven industries. As CEO of Avon, I reinvented the business into a modern omni-channel company, driving digital growth, restoring profitability, and embedding sustainability and women’s empowerment at its core.

I bring board expertise in governance, AI, ESG, and growth, guiding organizations through market shifts, restructurings, and innovation. Known for uniting stakeholders around a shared vision, I bring energy, clarity, and results to the boardroom, the stage, and in mentoring future leaders.

What challenges or opportunities were you facing in your career or on your board before taking our course?

Before the course I was moving from the CEO role into board work. The challenge was shifting from being the decision maker to asking the right questions and guiding from the boardroom. I already had experience in U.S. board governance and wished to expand my European perspective. I wanted to strengthen my view on ESG, technology and governance, and learn how to bring the most value as a non-executive. The programme helped me sharpen that lens and gave me confidence to contribute with greater clarity and impact.

Why did you choose to study for the Diploma in Corporate Governance with us to help with these challenges/opportunities?

I chose the Diploma because I wanted to stay close to the latest regulations and best practices shaping boardrooms today. For me it was important to understand how European boards work, how they think about governance and how to co-create value by their side. The programme offered both the structure and the practical insights to bridge my international experience with a stronger European perspective

Can you describe any particular elements of the course that stood out to you or made a significant impact?

What stood out most for me was the interactive nature of the course. I loved the case studies, the very rich references and the chance to test ideas in real scenarios. The focus on the latest regulations and the newest insights into how boards can operate to create the best environment for executives to achieve their goals was especially valuable. It felt both practical and inspiring.

How has completing this course influenced your career, leadership approach, or governance or ESG skills?

Completing the course has had a direct impact on the way I contribute to my current boards. I bring a sharper governance perspective and a stronger ability to frame discussions around ESG and long-term value. In addition, my AI Governance professional certificate has opened new opportunities for advisory work with other boards and allows me to better support my own boards in navigating AI governance and its responsible use at board level.

What did you find most beneficial about studying with the Corporate Governance Institute?

What I found most beneficial was the flexibility to learn in my own time within a clear and supportive framework. The richness of the resources and the compelling material offered made the learning journey inspiring and the interactivity of the platform kept it dynamic and engaging throughout.

What advice would you give future learners wishing to pursue the Diploma in Corporate Governance?

My advice is to approach the course with curiosity and openness. Do not just study to pass the exam, but use the materials, case studies and discussions to reflect on your own boardroom experiences and ambitions. The more you connect the learning to real situations, the more value you will take with you into your future board roles.