Every successful executive search begins with a detailed specification that describes the qualifications required in the successful candidate. The specification is also used to target the search so that the process is systematic and comprehensive. Finally, the specification is a yardstick to compare the capabilities and experiences of various candidates. Some elements to be considered in drafting a suitable Board specification include: Independence: A fundamental requirement of corporate governance is the independence of company Directors. The candidate should not have a supplier or competitive relationship with the company. Functional Experience: The successful Board should have a broad representation from the various commercial functions including finance, technology, legal, operations, and marketing. Industry Experience: The Board may require individuals who have some specific exposure to certain industries or market segments. This may be a result of a need to understand the company’s environment or a requirement to mirror the strategies of other businesses that faced similar challenges. Governance Philosophy: The successful Board members exhibit an understanding of the boundary between corporate management and corporate governance. Governance Experience: Sometimes it is valuable to recruit individuals with previous Board experience especially if this involves certain committee responsibilities or major changes in company strategy like acquisitions or refinancing. International Experience: Multicultural and global business strategies require Board members with an international perspective. Board Culture: A successful Board embraces diversity but also understands the need for cohesive action and respect for final Board decisions as a group effort. The successful Board member also understands the need for confidentiality and respect for open discussion in the Board room. Integrity and Character: Corporate governance responsibilities require a level of integrity and personal character that reflects well on the company and the rest of the Board members. Geography and Scheduling: Board membership has become more demanding and the requirements on the Director’s time to travel to and attend meetings and other events can be substantial. Convenient location and congruent schedules of other Board or activities should be determined early in the process. Stage of Career: The successful candidate must have the runway to provide a continuity of Board service as envisioned by the Nominating Committee. Support: The successful candidate must have the endorsement of their current Board or must balance the demands of other Board membership with this new position. Communications Skills and Public Visibility: The ideal candidate must have the ability to communicate in a consistent fashion outside the company and must be able to enhance the stature of the Board from an external standpoint. Contemporary Approach: The successful Board candidate should have curiosity about the contemporary developments in company leadership and commercial approaches to competitive strategies. Regulatory Knowledge: The successful Board candidate should understand and be sensitive to current corporate governance and regulatory influences on company Boards.