Strengthening board expertise

Dear Members,

The month of May went past in a whirlwind of events and activities marked by insightful discussions, meaningful collaborations and key milestones. 

Board Ready graduates 
Our heartiest congratulations to the 56 graduates of the SID Board Readiness Programme 2024-2025. After months of intensive training, the second cohort of our flagship course for aspiring directors is equipped with the essential boardroom competencies to prepare them for board appointments. (See below)

Special thanks to our knowledge partners, facilitators, mentors and review panel members who made this programme possible. Our Guest-of-Honour at the graduation ceremony, Alvin Tan, Minister of State, Ministry of National Development & Ministry of Trade and Industry, shared a powerful message: “You, as members of the board, are the compass that keeps organisations on course – be it in good times or in bad times.” 

Advancing the sustainability agenda
As secretariat of Climate Governance Singapore, SID facilitated a number of key discussions on sustainability and governance. 

Together with SGX and CDL, we organised the launch of the Asking Better Questions on Nature guide by the Taskforce on Nature-Related Financial Disclosures featuring its CEO Tony Goldner. We followed that up with a dialogue with the International Sustainability Standards Board, represented by vice chair Sue Lloyd and board member Verity Chegar. 

On 27 May 2025, an international panel of speakers explored the Transatlantic Divide on ESG, spotlighting the different approaches to sustainability in the US and Europe – and the resulting implications for businesses in the region.

Navigating technology
Technology risks and board leadership were also at the forefront of discussions. At a specially curated board conversation, SID and EY teamed up to explore strategies for managing artificial intelligence (AI), cyber security and emerging cyber risk. A pit-stop session on Rethinking Diversity Amid Disruption examined how boards have to adapt to rapid technological advancements. 

And in a current topic discussion organised by the SID digital chapter, guest speakers from Google Singapore and KPMG in Singapore highlighted the challenges in balancing innovation, governance and risk in the boardroom. The presentation, “The AI Dilemma” was a standing-room only event, offering insights into responsible AI integration, leadership engagement, regulatory compliance and cross-functional collaboration.

Recognising our partners
In recognition of the importance of collaboration and partnership to strengthen the directorship community, SID organised a partners appreciation event on 28 May 2025. Our special thanks to all our supporters, Governance for Good Alliance partners and community partners. (See below)

We also hosted our inaugural Corporate Members Appreciation event bringing together board members, corporate leaders and partners. We are pleased to feature a growing host of partner benefits for corporate members.

Upcoming highlights
Look out for our next current topic, When Board Members Disagree. A panel of industry practitioners and thought leaders will dive into lessons from public board disputes, examining how directors can navigate internal conflicts and uphold strong governance structures. 

Our Advanced Programme on Sustainability returns in 26–27 June 2025. Presented in collaboration with SGX and KPMG, the course helps listed company directors integrate ESG practices into their business strategy while adapting to regulatory changes, including IFRS-based sustainability reporting.

For those aspiring to board roles, Build Your Path to Board Directorship is a full-day immersive workshop designed to help individuals position themselves effectively for board opportunities. And our Board Simulation Programme offers a high-impact cyber crisis simulation, equipping board members with real-time decision-making experience in digital risk scenarios.

On the horizon, special promotions are coming up for SGOOD 2.0 – Governance for Outstanding Organisation Directors programme, co-developed by SID and NCSS to support nonprofit board directors. Both new and existing SID members can look forward to exclusive benefits – stay tuned for more details. 

Finally, don’t miss the early-bird promotion for SID Directors Conference 2025 (12 September) which ends on 20 July 2025 – register early to snag discounted rates.

Stay ahead in your directorship journey, and stay connected.

HIGHLIGHTS

Listed Entity Director Programme
15 – 23 July 2025 | PARKROYAL COLLECTION Marina Bay

The Listed Entity Director (LED) Programme is a pre-requisite course supported by the Singapore Exchange for first-time appointees on boards of listed companies. For a limited time only, complete all core and optional modules in one year and get a waiver of accreditation exam fees. Plus, receive a set of Corporate Governance Guides for Boards when you complete all 9 modules by the end of this year.

SID Directors Conference 2025
12 September 2025 | 9.30am – 5.30pm
Suntec Singapore Convention & Exhibition Centre

Set against a backdrop of shifting geopolitics, dynamic trade relations and changing demographics, the SID Directors Conference on Transformational Directorship: Purpose, Practice, Performance, Progress features distinguished speakers and industry experts who will delve into the multifaceted challenges facing boards and directors as they help their organisations transform and adapt to the evolving business landscape and create value for their stakeholders.

Early Bird Registration until 20 July 2025.

When Board Members Disagree –
Lessons from recent public board disputes
25 June 2025 | 10.00am – 1.00pm | PARKROYAL COLLECTION Marina Bay

Disputes among board members make for interesting headline news. When internal conflicts surface, particularly in firms with complex ownership structures, they often spotlight issues such as the role of independent directors, the authority of executive leadership, and internal dynamics within board committees. Boardroom disputes challenge our understanding of corporate governance and directorship responsibilities, especially in balancing accountability, independence and influence. Join this session for an in-depth discussion on how boards can navigate conflict and uphold good governance.

Advanced Programme on Sustainability
26 – 27 June 2025 | 9.00am – 6.00pm | PARKROYAL COLLECTION Marina Bay

With the shift in expectations of businesses’ environmental, social and governance (ESG) practices, board directors have to guide their companies on the next stage of the ESG journey. Specifically curated for directors of listed companies, this advanced programme delves deeper into sustainability governance at the board level. It prepares directors to meet regulatory changes, such as sustainability reporting based on International Financial Reporting Standards, while integrating sustainability into business strategy for long-term success. Presented by SID, in collaboration with SGX and KPMG.

Build Your Path to Board Directorship
3 July 2025 | 9.00am – 6.00pm | PARKROYAL COLLECTION Marina Bay

Becoming a board director is a journey of personal fulfilment, growth and meaning. Stepping into a board director role requires more than experience and knowledge – it requires a clear strategy, a compelling value proposition and a deep understanding of how to position yourself. Realising board opportunities is not just about what you know, but how well you can articulate the value you bring. This workshop provides an immersive learning experience to uncover your “Good” for directorship and supports you with insights from experienced directors.

Cyber Resilience Training for Board Directors (Complimentary for members)
24 July 2025 | 3.00pm – 5.30pm | NCS Hub

Board directors now have to navigate an increasingly complex operating environment. Beyond shifting geopolitical and regulatory landscapes, they must also address evolving cyber threats that can severely impact business operations, financial stability and reputation. SID, together with ISTARI and NCS, and with the support of the Cyber Security Agency of Singapore, will share a framework and processes to equip directors with essential insights and practical strategies to strengthen their organisations’ cyber posture. Participants will receive a complimentary print copy of the Cyber Resilience Guide for Boards in Singapore.

SID Director Accreditation Exam (for members only)
1 – 31 August 2024 | Online (Remote Proctoring)

The SID Director Accreditation programme establishes standards for director competencies and ensures directors stay relevant through continuous professional development. To be accredited, members have to complete at least 32 hours of formal directorship training and pass the SID Director Accreditation Exam administered online. The exam covers the eight areas of boardroom competencies outlined in the Director Competency Model.

SID Directors Bulletin
AI Success Starts with Culture

Artificial intelligence (AI) has the power to improve employee productivity and increase efficiency. But, as businesses increasingly integrate AI into their operations, success hinges not only on technology but also on fostering a culture that embraces innovation, collaboration and continuous learning. Vibhas Ratanjee, Ken Royal and Kanika Singh explore how organisations can align strategy, skills and security to unlock the full potential of AI.

Boardroom Matters
Regulators Should Step Up Cyber Security Accountability

Boards and management that treat cyber security as a backburner IT issue rather than a top corporate priority are putting their companies and stakeholders at grave risk, says Ben Chester Cheong. In today’s digital economy, strong cyber security is a fundamental obligation for any company that handles sensitive personal and business data. Major data breaches can crater stock prices, shatter consumer trust and invite hefty legal liabilities and regulatory penalties.

Board Readiness Programme
30 May 2025

Congratulations to the 56 graduates of the SID Board Readiness Programme 2024-2025. After months of immersive training, our second cohort has officially graduated. The flagship initiative equips aspiring directors with the skills and insights needed to step confidently into board directorship roles. The graduation ceremony was graced by Alvin Tan, Minister of State, Ministry of National Development & Ministry of Trade and Industry - who highlighted how effective board directors can help companies perform better, create jobs and contribute to national development.

Partners Appreciation
28 May 2025

SID hosted an appreciation event for its partners last month. In bringing together its supporters and partners in the ecosystem, we celebrate the value of partnerships and collaboration, nurturing relationships that strengthen the directorship community. Sustained partnerships are not just about delivering services and programmes. They’re about building trust, co-creating solutions and making a lasting impact. Here’s to continued growth, learning and shared outcomes.

PARTNERS’ HIGHLIGHTS

Personal Data Protection Week 2025
Personal Data Protection Commission Singapore
7-10 July 2025 | Marina Bay Sands Expo & Convention Centre, Singapore

Leadership in Action, Resilience in Practice
Sekuro
25 July 2025 | JW Mariott Hotel Singapore South Beach | Complimentary

Ideas to Assets: Innovating In Times of Change
Intellectual Property Office of Singapore
26-27 August 2025 | Marina Bay Sands Expo & Convention Centre, Singapore
SID members rate: $700 (Promo code: IPWSID)

 Copyright (C) 2025 Singapore Institute of Directors. All rights reserved.

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