SMU-SID Directorship Programme Testimonial
With Yvonne Soh | Chief Executive Officer, Singapore Green Building Council
There was a good deal of practical knowledge that I could apply almost immediately to my work. For a start, board dynamics had always been something I navigated intuitively, but now I'm able to be far more observant and strategic in how I engage with board members.
Yvonne Soh
CEO at Singapore Green Building Council
What made you decide to join the SMU-SID Directorship Programme?
I was drawn to the programme for its comprehensive coverage of directorship fundamentals. My organisation, the Singapore Green Building Council, has grown steadily since it was founded in 2009, and today offers a range of commercial services alongside our core mission. As we scale our existing business offerings and explore new areas of growth, I wanted to embed robust governance principles into our operational management, ensuring we have a strong foundation to grow on, rather than simply growing quickly.
On a personal level, I had been approached to join boards before but had declined as I did not feel fully equipped to contribute substantively. This programme has helped me close that gap and I have since accepted a directorship appointment.
Share with us your favourite experience / any memorable moments in the programme.
Like many of my course mates, I found the module on Director Duties and Legal Obligations a real eye opener. The depth of statutory and fiduciary duties involved made us all wonder what we were getting ourselves into. The numerous case studies vividly illustrated the various facets and mechanics of corporate governance, including the distinct roles of shareholders, directors and management. It really drove home the gravity of a director’s duties.
The finance module was another highlight. It was delivered in a clear, step-by-step way that unpacked the decision-making process and made it much easier to visualise the outcomes of investment, financing and dividend decisions.
What were some of the takeaways from the programme that you found helpful in your daily role?
There was a good deal of practical knowledge that I could apply almost immediately to my work. For a start, board dynamics had always been something I navigated intuitively, but now I'm able to be far more observant and strategic in how I engage with board members.
I've also become a lot more attuned to risk management, particularly around cybersecurity and operational resilience in critical business areas. I now think about risks far more deliberately than before.
Similarly, my approach to talent management and succession planning has become more intentional. I now clearly understand the critical need to prepare well in advance rather than reacting only when a gap arises.
Share with us one advice you have for aspiring Directors / Board Members who are considering the programme
The programme is not just for those aspiring to join a board or who are already sitting on one. It is equally valuable for CEOs and senior management who want to understand how to work more effectively with their boards. The relationship between a CEO and the board is a partnership and that partnership works best when both sides understand each other’s roles, responsibilities and expectations.
My advice to those considering the programme is to not wait until you’re invited to join a board to embark on the programme. Understanding governance from a director’s perspective is valuable in itself and will make you more effective in your current role, whether you are in management or already serving as a board director.
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About the SMU-SID Directorship Programme
The programme is a collaboration between Singapore Management University and Singapore Institute of Directors to empower board directors to be champions of good governance. It is one of the leading local directorship training programmes that leads to the SID Accredited Director status with exam exemption.
More information about the SMU-SID Directorship Programme here.