Professional development and advice

Preparing directors for what’s next

Directors need to be more agile, informed and forward-looking than ever. Our professional development and advice gives leaders the confidence to navigate today’s challenges and seize opportunities.

Professional development

In 2024 we focused on ensuring our learning experiences remain relevant, impactful and accessible. We wanted to better understand directors’ needs, career aspirations and the evolving role of professional development. A data-driven approach enabled us to refine and enhance our offerings.

Information and Advisory Service

We provide a fast, reliable and useful information service to members. With a diverse range of factsheets, templates, best practice guidance, tailored advice and research services, this valuable resource empowers directors to make informed business and career decisions.

Chartered Directors

179
New chartered directors qualified
Up from 95 in 2023
377
Individuals achieved the Diploma in Company Direction
Up from 293 in 2023
424
Delegates attained the Certificate in Company Direction
Up from 283 in 2023

Alys Smith

HR Director & Entrepreneur

The IoD Certificate in Company Direction gave Alys the confidence to launch a solar start up and a tech startup alongside her HR consultancy. She calls it a ‘game-changer’. She believes directors must be more adaptable, empathetic and data-fluent to pivot quickly in response to today’s fast-paced environment.

Mark Hutchinson

CEO, Hutchinson Engineering

The IoD’s Certificate and Diploma in Company Direction helped Mark transform his business by broadening his perspective, helping him professionalise operations, establish a formal board and bring in a non-executive chair. Today, he leads with purpose and is dedicated to lifelong learning.

Jim Wright

Partner, Knights Professional Services; NED, InterLegal

Experienced in law but new to business leadership, Jim found the IoD’s Certificate, Diploma and Chartered Director programmes invaluable. They gave him decision-making frameworks for strategy, development and market entry, now applied across his roles. His advice? Stay curious – ask questions, spot patterns and lean on the IoD’s supportive member network.

Looking ahead

We equip directors with insight and skills, giving them confidence to lead. Through the Chartered Director programme, open courses, in-company training and evolving digital learning – the IoD meets the needs of today’s leaders.

Documents and downloads

IoD Annual Report and Accounts 2024

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IoD Financial Statements 2024

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IoD Governance 2024

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