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

I am a Chartered Global Management Accountant with experience spanning financial leadership, advisory work and practice management. I run my own accounting and advisory practice — positioning myself as a “Finance GP for SMEs” — working with owner-managed businesses across financial accounts, corporation tax and strategic business advisory. Prior to this, I developed significant finance director-level experience, which gave me a strong foundation in financial governance but a desire to deepen my understanding of board-level governance more broadly.

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

My primary opportunity was a strategic career goal: to transition into Non-Executive Director roles. While my financial expertise gave me credibility, I recognised that a deeper, more structured grounding in corporate governance, beyond what accountancy training covers, would significantly strengthen my board-readiness and give me the language and frameworks to operate effectively at that level.

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

The Corporate Governance Institute’s Diploma was directly aligned with the NED pathway as it offered a practical, professionally recognised qualification all in one. It wasn’t purely academic; it addressed real board dynamics, governance frameworks and director responsibilities in a way that complemented my finance background rather than duplicating it. The flexibility of the programme also suited me as a busy practice owner.

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

The modules covering board effectiveness, director duties and risk oversight were particularly impactful. They helped me see governance not just as a compliance function, but as a strategic enabler of organisational health. The treatment of ESG responsibilities also resonated strongly, given the growing expectations placed on boards in that area.

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

The course has sharpened how I present myself as a board-ready candidate. I now engage with governance conversations, (whether in NED applications, advisory client work, or introductory discussions with recruiters) with much greater confidence and precision. As a result of completing TCGI’s Diploma in Corporate Governance, I have secured my first NED role. I’m now better equipped to contribute to risk, audit and finance committees, and I understand the non-executive role in a more rounded way than my accounting qualification alone gave me.

How has it improved decision-making or performance within your organisation?

Within my own practice, it has elevated the quality of governance advice I offer clients, particularly owner-managed businesses where founding directors often lack formal governance awareness. I’m now better placed to help clients build governance structures that support growth and accountability, and to flag where board-level risks may be emerging.

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

The credibility and focus of the qualification were the most beneficial aspects for me. TCGI is specifically focused on governance. It’s not a bolt-on module within a broader programme. The course content is deep, current and directly applicable. I really enjoyed the real life examples/videos shared by more experienced NEDs. The community of fellow learners, many of whom are also pursuing board roles was also genuinely valuable.

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

Come with a clear sense of why governance matters to you personally – whether that’s a board aspiration, a desire to serve your organisation better, or a commitment to stronger accountability in your sector. The qualification is most powerful when you can connect the theory to real situations you’ve faced or are facing. Don’t wait until everything feels “ready.” The course itself will accelerate your readiness.

How likely are you to recommend our certifications to a colleague?

5/5