Board Member Service
Recruiting the right Board members is one of the most strategic moves a company can make — especially in the criticalstages leading up to major funding rounds or an IPO. At this inflection point,founders and CEOs often face pressure not just to build a Board that satisfies governance requirements, but one that genuinely adds value across the business.
This is where specialized board recruitment services become invaluable.
At our firm, we bring deep experience and abroad network of senior executives, former founders, and domain experts who understand what it takes to guide a company through rapid growth and public readiness. We don’t just connect companies with qualified candidates — we align the Board’s composition with the company’s long-term goals, culture, and strategic vision
Your Business Partner
Jacques Putzeys leads board member search engagements with a deep understanding of what it takes to build high-performing boards. With over two decades of experience advising companies on capital raising and IPO preparation, he has played a pivotal role in helping clients attract and appoint outstanding board talent.
Throughout his career, Jacques has cultivated a broad and trusted network of senior executives—individuals recognized for their strategic insight, leadership experience, and strong reputations. This network has consistently proven to be a valuable asset in identifying and securing exceptional board candidates.
His professional background includes top leadership roles in banking and capital markets. Notably, he co-founded and led NASDAQ Europe, served as CEO of CGER/FORTIS Bank in New York, and held the position of President at Bank Nagelmaeckers.
A word from Jacques:
The role of an independent director on a company’s Board of Directors is crucial for ensuring objective oversight, good governance, and accountability. Here’s a breakdown of their role and responsibilities:
✅ Key Roles of an Independent Director
Objective Oversight
- Brings an unbiased perspective to board discussions and decisions.
- Challenges management when necessary without conflicts of interest.
Corporate Governance
- Helps ensure the company adheres to laws, regulations, and best practices.
- Upholds the integrity of financial reporting and disclosures.
- Protecting Shareholders’ Interests
- Acts as a guardian of the interests of all shareholders, especially minority shareholders.
- Ensures decisions align with long-term shareholder value.
Risk Management
- Assesses and monitors risks in strategy, operations, compliance, and finance.
- Participates in or chairs audit, risk, and compliance committees.
Performance Evaluation
- Evaluates the performance of executive management and the board itself.
- Often involved in CEO selection, succession planning, and compensation decisions.
Ethical Standards and Transparency
- Promotes high ethical standards and a transparent corporate culture.
- Ensures company behavior aligns with corporate values and stakeholder expectations.
🧭 Why Independence Matters
Independent directors are not involved in daily operations and do not have material relationships with the company, which helps them:
- Avoid conflicts of interest.
- Provide dispassionate judgment.
- Enhance investor and public trust.
⚖️ Regulatory and Legal Context
In many jurisdictions (e.g., under SEBI in India, or the SEC in the U.S.):
Companies, especially listed ones, are mandated to have a certain number of independent directors.
They are often required on audit, nomination, and remuneration committees.
Example:
If a CEO proposes a major acquisition, the independent director’s role would be to evaluate the deal’s strategic fit, financial impact, and risk exposure without being influenced by internal company politics or incentives.
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READ : The Intersection of Artificial Intelligence and Corporate Governance