In these excerpts from our discussions centered around leadership and being an effective board chair, Baroness Shriti Vadera, chair of Prudential plc, speaks with Heidrick & Struggles’ Bonnie Gwin and Jenni Hibbert about the importance of inclusivity and the roles listening and being reflective play in it. The three talk about cultivating a diversity of thought on a board and making sure all directors have equal airtime, particularly when there are new directors or those with unique perspectives. They also note that chairs must also have the courage to step in and have uncomfortable conversations when needed, the importance of creating and developing a network of people who will support and trust you, particularly if you are a diverse candidate. Vadera also argues that diverse candidates don’t need mentors, they need champions, and leaves us with this: “Seriously, we will have succeeded when there are as many mediocre women in charge as there are mediocre men.”

The importance of inclusivity and courage

The journey to the boardroom

About the interviewers

Bonnie Gwin (bgwin@heidrick.com) is a vice chairman in Heidrick & Struggles’ New York office and a co-managing partner of the CEO & Board Practice.

Jenni Hibbert (jhibbert@heidrick.com) is a partner in the London office and the global managing partner and head of Search Go-To-Market.