Board Evaluations
An honest view of how the board is working.
A board evaluation provides an independent view of how a board is functioning: its processes, dynamics, decision-making and overall effectiveness. Kerridge & Partners helps boards turn that insight into practical action that strengthens performance.
What we do
A board evaluation is more than a compliance exercise or a tick-box survey.
Done well, a board evaluation gives the board a clear, objective view of what is working, where attention is needed, and how it can operate more effectively.
We conduct independent external board evaluations designed to surface honest, practical insights. Our focus is on the realities of how the board works together: how it approaches strategy and oversight, the quality of its information and decision-making, and the dynamics that shape discussion in the boardroom.
The value lies not only in identifying themes, but in helping the board understand what matters most. A useful evaluation creates a basis for constructive conversation and prioritised action.
Our role is to strengthen board performance, not simply document it. We work with the chair and board to ensure the findings can be translated into meaningful next steps.
Who we work with
Board evaluations are for boards seeking an honest external perspective on their effectiveness.
Many listed and Crown entity boards undertake evaluations on a regular cycle. Others engage us following a specific challenge: a difficult period, a leadership transition, or concerns about board dynamics and decision-making.
We also work with boards that have not previously undertaken a formal evaluation and want to establish a clear baseline for future development.
In each case, independence matters. An external process can create the space for candid conversations, helping directors and executives identify patterns that may be difficult to address through an internal review.
Our approach to Board Evaluations
A board evaluation should strengthen board performance, not simply document it.
Focus the review
Every board operates within a particular organisational and leadership context. We begin by understanding the purpose of the evaluation, whether it is part of a regular review cycle, follows a period of change, or responds to a specific concern. This ensures the process is relevant to the board’s current priorities.
Hear every perspective
We conduct structured individual interviews with each director and the CEO. These conversations provide an opportunity for people to speak openly about how the board is operating, the issues it is navigating, and where there may be opportunities to improve its effectiveness.
Assess how the board works
Where appropriate, we observe a board meeting alongside the interview process. We assess the board against a consistent framework covering strategy, oversight, dynamics, information and decision-making, identifying the patterns and themes that matter most
Turn insight into action
We report back to the chair with clear findings and prioritised recommendations. Our involvement does not end with the report. We work with the board on how to respond to the evaluation and translate the findings into practical actions that support stronger performance.
Common questions about Board Evaluations
What does a board evaluation assess?
Our evaluations consider how the board is functioning across key areas including strategy, oversight, board dynamics, information and decision-making. The focus is on how the board operates in practice, not simply whether formal processes are in place.
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Confidentiality is fundamental. Directors speak with us individually and we are explicit that their individual comments will not be attributed. Our role is to identify patterns and themes, not to report on what any one person said. Directors generally find it easier to be candid with an independent party than in any internal process.
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We conduct structured interviews with each director and the CEO. Where appropriate, this is supplemented by observation of a board meeting to provide further insight into how the board works together.
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Some boards undertake evaluations on a regular cycle. Others seek an independent review following a leadership transition, a difficult period, concerns about board dynamics, or when they want to establish a baseline for future development.
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We provide the chair with a clear report setting out the key findings and prioritised recommendations. We then work with the board on how to act on these insights, rather than simply handing over a report.
An objective view can help a board move forward with confidence.
Whether your board is undertaking a regular evaluation, responding to a period of change, or seeking greater clarity on how it works together, an independent perspective can help create a constructive path forward.
⬥ Discuss a Board Evaluation
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