Adopt an inclusive mindset at the Board level. Commit to, and clearly communicate, the benefits of diversity at all levels of the issuer.

A Nomination Committee that comprises members of diverse backgrounds may help strengthen the process of increasing diversity on the Board.

The Nomination Committee should use a board skills matrix to assess the balance and mix of competencies and diversity on the Board, identify gaps and formulate the issuer’s action plan for building a refreshed and diverse Board.

Issuers should broaden their recruitment pool to generate a level playing field. For example, issuers can (i) expand from their traditional candidate pipeline, (ii) consider different recruitment channels (e.g. networking, professional recruiters, referrals) and (iii) ensure that selection practices are appropriately structured so that a diverse range of candidates is considered. 

Issuers may also find current directors of listed companies in their industry through the List of Directors on HKEX’s website.

Additional tip for large issuers with numerous subsidiaries: appoint prospective board members from a range of backgrounds to subsidiary boards or sub-committees to allow (i) such individuals to accumulate experience and (ii) the issuer to get to know them before they are nominated to the issuer’s Board.

Issuers should invest in talent management programmes and training / mentorship programmes to facilitate the development of a broader and more diverse pool of skilled and experienced employees who can, in time, occupy senior management and board positions.

Think carefully about the type of company and industry which best suits your profile. Only accept an invitation to serve as a director of a listed issuer if you can devote sufficient time and effort to the role.

Expand your network. Increase your profile (for example, by speaking at conferences, publishing articles and serving on the boards of non-profit organisations). More importantly, be vocal about your interest in serving on a listed issuer board.

Identify your unique strengths, skills, areas of expertise and relevant experience.

Attend learning and training courses to familiarize yourself with topical governance issues and to understand the duties and responsibilities of being a director of a listed issuer.