Members

EPOC BOARD Fellowship

The EPOC Board Fellowship programme gives members the chance to become participating observers on the Boards of FTSE 350 companies, private companies, charities and not-for-profit organisations. This sector agnosticism makes our programme one of a kind, creating a wider range of opportunity.
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During these temporary appointments, participants gain the tangible experience of attending Board meetings from the perspective of a Board Fellow, removing the expectation of financial remuneration or the legal liability involved for a Director or Trustee.

How The Board Fellowship Works

We work with host organisations to provide Board Fellow placements for 12-18 months. During this time, appointed Fellows can attend all Board meetings under a full NDA. When the placement ends, Fellows should not expect to remain on the Boards they were observing.

Host organisations are also asked to nominate one of their own senior executives of colour to be included in the EPOC Board Fellowship Programme and placed within a non-conflicting organisation to further their own experience.

Programme
Benefits

Our programme is free of charge for Board Fellows and designed to provide lasting benefits for our members. Throughout the placement, participants will gain practical experience operating as part of a Board, make valuable network connections, receive access to mentorship and can aquire a Chair's reference to apply for further Board positions.

Board Fellow Criteria

To receive a placement with one of our host organisations, members must fulfil the following criteria:

1.

Identify as an executive or leader of colour

2.

Have no/limited experience to date on the Board of a FTSE 350 company or similarly large organisation

3.

Be an existing EPOC member

4.

Preferably be a UK resident

5.

Have no conflict of interest with the company they are seeking placement with

6.

Demonstrate a capacity to participate in the Programme alongside their other commitments

Expectations
of Board fellow

When taking part in the Board Fellowship Programme, members will need to follow certain rules and expectations.

For more information on the Board Fellowship Programme, see our Board Fellowship brochure:

View Brochure

Ensure complete confidentiality

Pre-read Board and sub-committee material to prepare for the role

Attend all possible Board and sub-committee related events

Engage fully with discussions where appropriate

Discuss Board meetings and agendas with a nominated Board mentor to identify what contributions and expertise the Fellow can provide

Contribute to Board discussions where appropriate to provide perspective and expertise where possible