Betsy Bernard's View from the Boardroom
Current positions:
Member, Board of Directors - Lambda Legal
Board Member - Family Promise, Inc
Chair, Nom/Gov Committee - Zimmer Biomet
Director - Leap
Advisory Board Member - The Angeletti Group
What made you decide that you wanted to become a corporate board member?
I didn't decide. In my late 30s and early 40s I was a C-Suite executive. I interacted with the boards of the 3 different Fortune 500 companies where I worked, so the board room was a place I felt comfortable. In 1998, at age 43, I was recruited to be CEO of a venture funded technology company as well as a board member. Shortly after that I was recruited onto the boards of two additional tech startups.
In 1999 (age 44) I was recruited by a search firm (Catalyst) to join the board of the Principal Financial group. Over the course of my career I have served on 12 corporate boards.
Once you decided to work on getting onto a corporate board, what were some of the first things you did?
As I began my career as a corporate director, I became a member of NACD. I started taking advantage of all of their educational opportunities and still do. So I never worked on getting onto a corporate board, but I work very hard to be an effective board member.
How did you get connected to your first board seat?
My first board seat came when I was recruited to be a CEO of a technology company where I also served as a board member. I was an EVP of a Fortune 500 company at that time.
How long did it take you to get your first corporate board seat after you started devoting time to the process?
Given my C-suite experience and the 3 venture funded boards I served on, I was viewed as a competitive candidate for board service.
What steps did you take to prepare for the board interview process that benefited you most?
For every board interview I spent significant time researching the company and industry.
What characteristic or behavior do you believe was critical to your success in landing your first board role?
Successful and extensive operational and leadership experience in Fortune 500 companies.
What has surprised you about the reality of board service versus the expectations you had going in?
Very demanding and time consuming.
How do you feel your board service complements or enhances your professional career?
When I was still running companies, being on a different company board gave me insight and experiences that helped me be a more effective Board chair and executive.
What is the one essential piece of advice you’d offer to senior-level executives pursuing their first board seat?
Ensure your performance in your C-suite role is exceptional, best in class and recognized by your leaders, colleagues and employees. Network Network Network with organizations and individuals who are in the board room or serve the board room.
What is a favorite quote that inspires you?
“Make the practice harder than the game” - in other words, be prepared!
I wish I had more time to….
mentor younger executives
