Board Advisory

When the board isn’t working,
everything stalls

Board performance reviews, strategy and governance advisory for organisations navigating misalignment, governance gaps, complexity and transformation.

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The Problem

Perhaps there is a crisis. Perhaps small fractures have compacted over time.

High-performing boards know that regular reviews are essential, and from time to time, circumstances demand one out of cycle.

Boards are not aligned on direction

Competing views on strategy create friction and dysfunction at the highest level.

Governance structures are unclear

Roles and accountabilities blur, and decisions are made without proper oversight.

A review is required

It could be a regular review, or one required by a regulator, investor or funder, and an independent approach is sought.

How We Can Work Together

Two ways to strengthen board performance

Structured Review

Board Performance Review

A structured, confidential review of board effectiveness, combining an AICD-aligned framework with surveys, observation and interviews. The result is a clear report and action plan, with confidential individual feedback for directors and a fixed price scoped upfront.

Open-Ended Advisory

Strategy & Governance Advisory

Tailored advisory for organisations asking whether they’re clear on strategic direction, whether their governance structures enable growth, and whether they have the capability to execute on what they’ve committed to. Open-ended and responsive to the organisation’s specific situation.

How a Board Review Works

A structured process, tailored to your board

01.

Scoping & Framework

Determine the scope, choose the review framework, and agree on the level of granularity appropriate for your board.

02.

Assessment & Analysis

Participant surveys, direct observation of board meetings, and confidential interviews to capture the full picture.

03.

Report Back & Action

Board presentation, facilitated workshop to prioritise next steps, and individual confidential feedback where needed.

What Clients Say

The outcomes speak for themselves

  • Denise brought deep governance knowledge, experience and skills to the Review. She facilitated all aspects of the Board Review – questionnaire, interviews with Directors and senior executives, Board workshop, and the final report.
    Chair
    Multidisciplinary community organisation
  • Denise North Consulting was brought into our NFP Planning day to assist Directors to better understand the importance of “good” governance and educate the team in the eight key AICD principles for effective Governance.
    Deputy Chair
    Disability services provider
  • Importantly, Denise was able to pinpoint some practical improvements that would give the Board the edge and capability lift it needed. She did not shy away from sensitive conversations about Board dynamics.
    Non-Executive Director
    Multi-service community organisation
Common Questions

What Chairs will ask before engaging

How disruptive will a board review be?

Surveys and interviews are scheduled around availability, observation is minimal, and the workshop is typically a half-day. Most boards find the process far less disruptive than expected — and more valuable.

What happens to confidential feedback?

Individual director feedback is shared privately and confidentially — never included in the board-level report unless permission is given.

How much does a board performance review cost?

Typically $15,000 to $25,000 + GST for a small to medium board, depending on size and complexity. A fixed-price proposal follows an initial scoping conversation.

Ready to Start?

An effective board is a strategic asset.
An underperforming one is a liability.

Book a confidential conversation to explore whether a board review or governance advisory engagement is the right step for your organisation.

Book a Conversation