Chapter 3 - Board Director Demographics and Attributes

Question 1

What does the 11C model assess?

Answer 1

Board director effectiveness across Demographics, Attributes, Dynamics, and Structures — the “DADS” categories.

Question 2

What are the three elements of Board Demographics in the 11C model?

Answer 2

Capacity (fitness and time), Capability (skills, independence), Connection (to stakeholders and context).

Question 3

What factors can compromise director independence?

Answer 3

Tenure over 9 years, former executive roles at the same firm, or material relationships/shareholdings.

Question 4

What does ‘Connection’ mean in Board demographics?

Answer 4

The Board should reflect the external world it serves — including customers, workforce, and communities.

Question 5

What are the two key components of Board Structures?

Answer 5

Configuration (e.g. mix of executives/NEDs, SID, Committees) and Compliance (with governance codes/regulators).

Question 6

Does compliance with codes guarantee Board performance?

Answer 6

No — structure and regulation are important, but they don’t ensure effective dynamics or judgement.

Question 7

What three attributes define effective directors?

Answer 7

Competence (judgement and insight), Commitment (time, preparation, attention), Character (integrity, courage, independence).

Question 8

What personality traits make up the Big Five (OCEAN)?

Answer 8

Openness, Conscientiousness, Extraversion, Agreeableness, Neuroticism.

Question 9

Why is mindset important in director attributes?

Answer 9

A growth mindset improves openness to feedback and learning; a fixed mindset resists development.

Question 10

What are the three key Board dynamics in the 11C model?

Answer 10

Cohesion (trust and shared purpose), Challenge (constructive dissent), Culture (norms and expectations).

Question 11

What is the memory aid for Chapter 3?

Answer 11

D-A-D-S = Demographics (3Cs), Attributes (3Cs), Dynamics (3Cs), Structures (2Cs)