PWN Global Women on Boards Circle
Shaping the Future, One Board Seat at a Time.
Ready to take your place in the boardroom? Whether you're already a Non-Executive Director (NED) or you're aiming for a seat at the table, the PWN Global Women on Boards Circle is here to help you prepare, learn, and connect your way to success.
"It's the resource we longed for a decade ago - when we first stepped into boardrooms, often as the only women, navigating a space shaped by the 'boys’ club' without a playbook of our own."
- Jeanne C. – Global Executive Lead, WOB Circle
Why join the Circle?
We get it - getting on a board isn’t just about having the skills (though yes, you need those too). It’s about knowing how to position yourself, build your board brand, and navigate the (often mysterious) world of board appointments. That’s where we come in.
“Joining the PWN Women on Boards program was a game-changer. It gave me the tools, confidence, and clarity to own my leadership journey and aim higher. The mentoring, insights, and community support were simply invaluable.” Sharon S.
“The Women on Boards Circle opened my eyes to exciting new possibilities! With incredible mentorship and peer support, I felt ready to step into my first board role and make a real impact beyond my daily work.” Luísa R.
What's in it for you?
Up to 7 Expert Webinars (over 1 year) - Learn everything that you need to know to be board-ready.
The know-how is structured on 3 pillars:
1. Prepare
- Understand what boards look for
- Translate your executive experience into board value
- Build self-awareness of your strengths and posture as a board member
2. Learn
- Clarify the difference between governance and management
- Understand your role and responsibilities as a board member
- Stay informed about boardroom practices and expectations
3. Connect
- Gain access to a largely invisible board market
- Leverage the strength of PWN’s global network in 22 countries
- Grow your visibility and opportunities through community and mentoring
8-month Mentoring Programme – Get matched with seasoned executives who’ve been there, done that, and bought the boardroom blazer.
Toolkits & Resources – Board CV templates, elevator pitch crafting, SoMe (social media) dos and don’ts—everything you need to build your board-ready brand.
Coffee Chats – Candid, informal sessions to learn, share, and laugh with your peers (yes, board talk can be fun!).
Who's it for?
- Women currently serving or aspiring to serve as Non-Executive Directors
- Those wanting to deepen their understanding of board responsibilities
- Anyone seeking a dynamic community of like-minded, future-facing professionals
How does it work?
To join, you need to be a PWN member in good standing.
Then, choose the WOB Circle option that suits your journey best:
- €500/year – Includes full mentoring programme.
- €300/year – Webinars, events, and network access (mentoring not included). Recommended as a follow up to the full mentoring programme.
Join the Circle - and bring YOUR voice to the table
This isn’t just a programme. It’s a movement. A community. And a catalyst for change.
If you're ready to go from “I think I could” to “I definitely do,” the Women on Boards Circle is the place to begin.
Click here to apply now and let’s get you board-ready!
(Applications are open all year round)
What's the difference between executive and non-executive board members?
Here's a quick look:
| Non-Executive Board Members | Executive Board Members |
| Provide oversight and strategic guidance | Responsible for day-to-day management and operations |
| Challenge and advise on strategic direction | Develop and implement company strategy |
| Monitor executive performance and hold them accountable | Lead and manage business units and teams |
| Ensure financial integrity and compliance | Make operational decisions (budgeting, hiring, etc.) |
| Represent shareholder interests | Report to the board of directors |
| Participate in board committees (audit, remuneration, etc.) | Manage company resources and performance |
| Evaluate risks and opportunities | Ensure implementation of board policies |
| Bring external expertise and independent judgment | Communicate with stakeholders and employees |
| Act as a check and balance to executive decisions | Lead corporate culture and internal policies |
| Ensure governance best practices | Ensure legal and regulatory compliance in operations |
While responsibilities are typically distributed based on individual expertise, experience, and the strategic needs of the organisation, studies have observed certain trends regarding gender dynamics within these roles:
- Committee Participation: Female directors are often more likely to serve on monitoring committees, such as Audit or Corporate Social Responsibility committees. This may stem from gendered perceptions of women being more diligent or ethical in oversight roles.
- Leadership Positions: Despite an increasing presence of women in non-executive roles, they remain underrepresented in top leadership positions such as Board Chairs.