ΠΕΡΙΓΡΑΦΗ

This programme is designed to equip Non-Executive Directors (NEDs) in financial institutions with the skills, knowledge, and oversight capabilities needed to effectively fulfil their governance responsibilities. The course covers key regulatory expectations, corporate governance principles, risk management frameworks, and boardroom best practices. 

Participants will develop a deeper understanding of their role in providing strategic guidance, ensuring accountability, and safeguarding the financial institution’s integrity, sustainability, and regulatory compliance. 

Through interactive discussions, case studies, and practical examples, the program enhances NEDs’ ability to challenge management constructively and make informed decisions in an increasingly complex financial and regulatory environment.

ΣΚΟΠΟΣ ΣΕΜΙΝΑΡΙΟΥ

By the end of this training, participants will be able to:

• Understand the role, responsibilities, and legal obligations of Non-Executive Directors in financial institutions.
• Strengthen oversight skills related to strategy, risk management, financial performance, and corporate governance.
• Interpret and apply regulatory expectations from central banks, supervisors, and financial regulators.
• Identify key risk categories including credit, market, operational, liquidity, conduct, and cybersecurity risks.
• Provide effective challenge to executive management through informed questioning and evidence-based decision-making.
• Oversee internal controls, compliance frameworks, and audit functions to ensure institutional resilience.
• Promote ethical leadership, culture, and accountability across the organisation.
• Enhance board effectiveness through communication, stakeholder engagement, and decision-making best practices.

ΣΕ ΠΟΙΟΥΣ ΑΠΕΥΘΥΝΕΤΑΙ

The programme is ideal for:

• Existing Non-Executive Directors (NEDs) looking to enhance their strategic and governance capabilities
• Newly appointed or aspiring NEDs preparing to take on board responsibilities
• Board members of listed companies, private firms, family businesses, and regulated entities in Cyprus
• Senior executives transitioning into advisory or governance roles
• Legal, compliance, or audit professionals seeking a deeper understanding of NED functions
• Shareholders or investors seeking to strengthen board-level oversight and decision-making

ΠΕΡΙΣΣΟΤΕΡΕΣ ΠΛΗΡΟΦΟΡΙΕΣ

Training Outline 

Introduction to the Role of Non-Executive Directors

• Definition and purpose of Non-Executive Directors
• Key characteristics of an effective NED
• Distinction between executive and non-executive responsibilities
• Fiduciary duties, legal obligations, and accountability

Regulatory & Supervisory Expectations

• Overview of regulatory frameworks (Basel standards, AML/CTF, prudential regulations, governance codes)
• Role of the board in regulatory compliance
• Supervisory assessments and interactions with regulators
• Governance expectations from central banks and financial authorities

Corporate Governance in Financial Institutions

• Principles of good governance
• Board composition, diversity, and independence
• Board committees (Audit, Risk, Remuneration, Governance) – roles and responsibilities
• Board evaluations and performance reviews

Strategic Oversight & Business Model Understanding

• The NED’s role in strategy development and approval
• Assessing business models, market positioning, and competitive landscape
• Oversight of digital transformation, innovation, and fintech partnerships
• Evaluating strategic risks and opportunities

Risk Management Oversight

• Understanding enterprise risk management (ERM)
• Credit, market, liquidity, operational, and compliance risks
• Cybersecurity and technology risk
• Stress testing, risk appetite frameworks, and capital adequacy
• How NEDs challenge management on risk issues

Financial Statements & Performance Oversight

• Financial literacy for NEDs
• Key financial ratios and performance indicators
• Oversight of capital, liquidity, and profitability
• Role of internal and external audit
• Understanding financial red flags

Culture, Ethics, and Conduct Risk

• Tone at the top and cultural leadership
• Managing conflicts of interest
• Oversight of conduct risk and customer protection
• Supporting an ethical, transparent, and compliant culture

Board Dynamics & Effective Decision-Making

• Constructive challenge and healthy debate
• Effective communication with executive management
• Decision-making frameworks for NEDs
• Confidentiality, independence, and sound judgment

Crisis Management & Business Continuity Oversight

• NED responsibilities in crisis situations
• Scenario planning, contingency frameworks, and crisis communication
• Oversight during financial distress, cybersecurity incidents, or operational crises

Case Studies & Practical Exercises

• Governance failures in financial institutions (analysis and lessons learned)
• Boardroom simulation exercises
• Identifying red flags in financial and risk reports
• Mock strategic and risk review discussions

Closing Insights & Action Plan

• Summary of key learning points
• Self-assessment for NED effectiveness
• Action plan for enhancing governance performance

Training Style

The programme blends expert-led presentations with interactive discussions, real-life case studies, and collaborative group work. It strikes a balance between structured knowledge delivery and active learner participation, encouraging participants to ask questions, challenge assumptions, and contribute their own perspectives.

Through a mix of practical tools and strategic insights, participants will gain the confidence and clarity needed to lead effectively.

By the end of the session, they will be equipped with actionable techniques to enhance their boardroom presence, support robust governance in Cyprus, and contribute to high-impact decision-making.

CPD Recognition

This programme may be approved for up to 5 CPD units in Financial Regulation. Eligibility criteria and CPD Units are verified directly by your association, regulator or other bodies which you hold membership.