In celebration of International Women’s Day 2025, we asked a number of women from our Dynamic Boards NED Community about their board careers, what they most enjoyed about their NED work and what we can do collectively to inspire more women into the boardroom.
In the second blog of this series focusing on women on boards, we are shining a light on Alison McKinna, who is currently a Non-Executive Director for Mattioli Woods plc, Shepherds Friendly and BHSF.
Why did you become a NED / Chair?
Both my sons were ill when they were born and the NHS provided excellent care. I wanted to find a way to give back and a friend suggested looking at being a Non Executive Director. I started my NED career in the NHS combining this with exec roles. In 2019 my eldest son was diagnosed with cancer (he’s fine now) and so I stopped my executive career to care for him. Once he was better I moved to being a portfolio NED and have gradually built up my experience on Boards, chairing Board Sub Committees and being Board Chair, across multiple sectors and governance structures.
What do you enjoy about NED work?
I enjoy creating strategic direction and vision for the future particularly around financial performance, customer experience and digital transformation. I enjoy thinking of the one question that will change the level of performance and the development of the Board conversation.
What would you say to inspire more women to become NEDs?
I have always found the whole NED community to be generous with their time. I’d encourage people to reach out to other NEDs, explore asking for advice along the way, and join an organisation or sector you are passionate about.
What do you think is holding more women back from becoming NEDs?
I think it is always good to have role models as it creates a view of the art of the possible. When an interview hasn’t led to a positive appointment, or there are Board challenges it’s good to be part of a supportive network like Dynamic Boards.
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