Welcome note from the Institute of Directors

Thank you for your interest in this important role. As one of the most well recognised and highly respected business organisations in the UK and internationally, the IoD strives to exemplify excellence in leadership, governance and management in its own activities and actions, continuously adapting to a rapidly changing and challenging external environment. In so doing, it seeks to position itself as the pre-eminent voice for directors, influencing business policy and practice across the United Kingdom and internationally.

We promote entrepreneurial activity, and encourage responsible business practices as well as develop,
support and represent skilled, knowledgeable and responsible leaders for the benefit of the economy and
society. As an organisation we will continue to promote the best principles of great governance and ensure the overall member journey within the IoD is an exciting, relevant and engaging experience regardless of stage of career or what organisation our members belong to.

Good governance remains the foundation for good business. The IoD believes that better directors make
a better world and its fundamental purpose and services remain hugely valued by directors across the world.

The IoD is at an exciting point in its development. We returned to growth, stabilised our finances and
increased our reach among the wider business community.

We have reinvigorated our approach to engaging both current and future directors, while staying true to our Royal Charter, and we have adapted our highly acclaimed professional development offering to focus on the competencies that will be required over the next decade. The latter is critical in a continuously challenging business climate where strong corporategovernance – the IoD’s core purpose – is more relevant than ever.

This is a time to support director professionalism and best practice. It also critical to continue to encourage
increased diversity across the membership.

Our mission is to attract new members from all walks of life who are serious about business, value learning and are committed to applying the principles upheld by the IoD. We seek individuals who are ready to challenge, be influential and eager to grow. We support them with first-in-class professional development and connecting them to young and experienced members.

Amongst other issues, a recent strategic review of the organisation has sought to identify a path that will
enable the Institute to strengthen its already sound financial position. Positive results from this work are
evident with the Institute reporting a stronger financial outcome for 2024 and an increase in membership. The upward trajectory has continued in 2025.

The challenge remains to maintain its authority as the leading voice on governance while also becoming more accessible.

Its objectives, across the country and internationally, are to increase the IoD’s local, regional and international member engagement, become more diverse and continue to attract new members.