WHY DIVERSITY
At Board Apprentice we define diversity as
We define diversity as “The collective mixture of differences and similarities that include, individual characteristics, values, beliefs, experiences, backgrounds, preferences and behaviours.” We would like to see every board reserve a seat at the table for educating an apprentice. Participating boards become part of a practical solution to develop board- ready, diverse candidates.
Why Diversity?
Most people know intuitively that diversity matters. It’s also increasingly clear from a large body of research, that it makes sense in purely business terms. Research finds that companies in the top quartile for gender or racial and ethnic diversity are more likely to have financial returns above their national industry medians. Companies in the bottom quartile in these dimensions are statistically less likely to achieve above-average returns. Furthermore, diversity is probably a competitive differentiator that shifts market share toward more diverse companies over time.
Statistical evidence [I would insert some references here] indicates that when companies commit themselves to diverse leadership, they are more successful. More diverse companies, we believe, are better able to win top talent and improve their customer orientation, employee satisfaction, and decision making, and all that leads to a virtuous cycle of increasing returns. This in turn suggests that other kinds of diversity—for example, in age, sexual orientation, and experience (such as a global mind-set and cultural fluency)—are also likely to bring some level of competitive advantage for companies that can attract and retain such diverse talent.
Our Mission
Our mission is to place apprentices on host boards for a 1 year period (representing a full annual board cycle) where the apprentices gain first-hand experience on the workings and dynamics of boards. We achieve this by establishing a global franchisee network that can take advantage of local circumstances in the relevant country whilst remaining committed to the global vision of the organisation.
Our Values
Integrity:
Demonstrating sound moral and ethical principles in everything we do is the hallmark of our work. At Board Apprentice we live our values and our work is carried out with integrity and truthfulness.
Diversity Equality Inclusion:
Actively advocating diversity and equality is what we do. Opportunities, also at the top, should be available to all and not be influenced by a person’s age, disability, race, religion, sexual preferences etc
Altruism:
Board Apprentice aims to achieve altruistic goals with no economic gain. Our work and the concept is based on a multi stakeholder partnership. We are 90% volunteers who offer up invaluable time, resources and personal networks to make it happen.
APPRENTICES BECOMING BOARD MEMBERS WITHIN A YEAR
Hours apprentices spent in board education
Hours spent by volunteers running scheme
Number of qualified and assessed candidates globally
Board meetings attended by board apprentices
