Governance Watch

Carillion's Shadow: The Lost Opportunity of Audit Reform

This episode of Governance Watch explores the UK government's decision in January to halt the audit reform process that began after Carillion's collapse in 2018. Host Gavin Hinks discusses with Anne Kiem, CEO of the Chartered Institute of Internal Auditors, and Dean Beale from the Center for Public Interest Audit Research, whether this represents a lost opportunity.

Rewiring the Board: Rethinking the Role of Non Executive Directors

Governance Watch explores whether the traditional model of the NED is still fit for purpose in a faster, more complex world. Host Gavin Hinks is joined by Baroness Natalie Evans, chair of the Institute of Directors commission behind a major new report, and Professor Irene-Marie Esser of the University of Glasgow, to unpack why boards now need 'rewiring' beyond the post-Higgs era. They argue that independence should mean more than avoiding conflicts of interest, it must also include independence of mind to counter groupthink, strengthen challenge, and improve governance in practice. The conversation covers why conservative recruitment and over-reliance on traditional pipelines can leave boards under-skilled for today’s risks (from technology and cyber to geopolitics and sustainability), and why NEDs may need deeper engagement with the organisation, better information flows, and stronger support to add strategic value. With 'curiosity' as the standout call to action, the episode offers a practical blueprint for board leaders looking to improve effectiveness, culture, and long-term decision-making.

The State of DEI in UK Boards; Progress, Pushback and Possibility

Governance Watch, the podcast from Board Agenda in association with Nasdaq Governance Solutions, explores how the corporate landscape is responding to growing pressures around diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI). In this episode, we’re joined by Doyin Atewologun, CEO of Delta Alpha Psi, steering committee member of the Parker Review, and honorary professor at Exeter Business School, to discuss the current state of DEI in UK boardrooms. Drawing on her academic and advisory work, Doyin reflects on the uneven but real progress made in representation, the importance of inclusion as everyday practice, and the growing tension between symbolic gestures and substantive change. She offers insight into the psychological spillover from shifting US policy, the challenge of performative allyship, and the quiet retreat by some companies in response to perceived reputational risks. For organisations still committed to progress, Doyin stresses the need for intentional action, accountability, and inclusive governance that is embedded into board culture—not sidelined. With optimism tempered by realism, this episode is essential listening for board members, executives and governance professionals navigating the complex and evolving DEI agenda.

Helen Hopper: The Art and Psychology of Boardroom Relationships

In this episode of Governance Watch, Gavin Hinks speaks with Helen Hopper, co-author of The Art and Psychology of Board Relationships, about the emotional dynamics shaping boardroom performance. Against a backdrop of economic pressure, geopolitical uncertainty, and rising complexity, boardrooms may find themselves fatigued, tetchy, and struggling to collaborate effectively. Helen explores how fear, ego, and scarcity mindsets can undermine decision-making and strategic focus, and offers practical advice for directors and chairs on improving board relationships, managing difference, and fostering resilience. With the new year approaching, it’s a timely conversation about reflection, reconnection, and building stronger, more thoughtful governance teams.

Helle Bank Jorgensen: Boards & Sustainability; Turning Intent into Impact

In this episode of Governance Watch, Gavin Hinks speaks with sustainability and boardroom expert Helle Bank Jorgensen about how corporate governance must evolve to meet today’s complex challenges. As boards face growing pressure to embed sustainability, respond to geopolitical uncertainty, and prepare for systemic risks, Hella argues that courageous stewardship, continuous learning, and a shift from oversight to foresight are essential. Drawing on insights from the Board Intelligence Board Value Index and her work with the World Economic Forum, she highlights the need for boards to move beyond box-ticking and embrace a proactive, purpose-led approach to value creation.