The Boardroom Blueprint with Julia Raue:

"Navigating the Path to Governance"

Last Thursday, we had the pleasure of hosting a breakfast kōrero with Julia Raue - an inspiring independent director whose governance journey spans some of New Zealand’s most influential organisations.

Julia shared her story with honesty, humour, and a whole lot of wisdom - from her days as CIO at Air New Zealand to her current board roles across the country. It was a brilliant opportunity for our clients to dive into the mindset, mechanics, and meaning of modern governance with someone who’s truly walked the talk.

Some standout takeaways Julia shared to help those navigating the shift from operational leadership to strategic governance:

• Governance is about oversight and assurance, not operational management - Directors must seek evidence and take personal accountability.
• Effective Directors ask probing questions, seek data, and rely on strong committee structures for assurance.
• Transitioning from executive to board roles means letting go of control, guiding rather than doing, and embracing humility.
• Aspiring Directors should clarify their goals, do due diligence on opportunities, and ensure legal protections.
• Resilience and reputation management are critical, as board roles can be lonely and high-stakes, especially in crises.
• A governance career is purpose-driven and long-term, offering impact and learning rather than quick financial rewards.
• Ongoing education, sector-specific expertise, and governance training (NZIOD/AICD) are essential for effective board performance and future-readiness.

Julia’s message was clear: governance isn’t just a seat at the table - it’s a serious responsibility. And for those considering the leap, preparation, reflection, and a commitment to growth are key.

A big thank you to everyone who came along and shared their morning with us, and a very special thanks to Julia for sharing your brilliant insights.