New Global Governance Network NEDness Launches to Support Boardroom Leaders
A new global governance network, NEDness, has launched to support non-executive directors, independent directors, board chairs, trustees and organisations seeking to strengthen boardroom effectiveness.
Founded by experienced business leader Julia Warrander, NEDness aims to make governance knowledge, practical guidance and peer support more accessible. The initiative brings together learning resources, shared experiences and professional connections to help individuals develop the skills and confidence needed to contribute effectively at board level.
The idea emerged from Warrander’s own transition from executive leadership into advisory and non-executive roles. During that journey, she identified a shortage of accessible, free guidance for people looking to develop the qualities needed to succeed as non-executive directors.
These qualities, described by Warrander as “nedness”, include independent thinking, constructive challenge, sound judgement and an understanding of effective governance.
NEDness seeks to address this gap through a free peer-learning community where aspiring and established board members can exchange knowledge, strengthen their capabilities and learn from others working across governance and leadership. The community has already attracted participants from Australia, Sweden, the Netherlands and the United States, highlighting its international reach.
The launch comes as the non-executive director landscape continues to develop in Jersey, where organisations are increasingly recognising the importance of independent oversight, strategic scrutiny and diverse perspectives in boardroom decision-making.
Through its international network, NEDness aims to provide local and global governance professionals with practical insights, opportunities to learn from their peers and connections that support their continued development.
Warrander said the initiative was designed for people at different stages of their boardroom careers, from those preparing for their first appointment to experienced directors managing portfolios of roles, trustees and organisations seeking additional non-executive expertise.
“NEDness is for anyone working towards their first appointment, finding their feet on a board, managing a portfolio of roles, serving as a trustee, or looking to strengthen their organisation's governance with non-executive expertise,” she said.
She added: “We created it to make governance more accessible, practical, and connected, and to help people build the confidence and capability they need to contribute effectively to modern boards. Our ambition is to bring together what has often been a fragmented market and create a community where people can learn, share experiences, and strengthen governance together.”
Warrander is joined in leading the organisation by Nanette van Vliet, Chief Operating Officer; Tom Noel, Chief Commercial Officer; and Peggy Curley, Chief Communications Officer.
