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Director and chair success profiles

The Australian Sports Commission has developed a board director and board chair success profile to align with the evolved Sport Governance Principles. The profiles outline the relevant competencies, knowledge, experience and personal attributes that make a successful director and chair.

The success profiles help new and aspiring directors to better understand the expectations and factors that contribute to the successful operation of a board. They also assist boards to fulfil their roles and responsibilities by ensuring directors have a diversity of skills, perspectives and backgrounds, which leads to more informed decision-making.

Marlene Elliott, Board Director

"You need to be willing to debate and participate in robust discussion."

Director success profile

Key factors that contribute to being a successful director.

Board Director Success Profile

Knowledge - what you know

  • High level of knowledge in at least one relevant area (governance, legal, marketing etc)
  • Understanding of the sporting landscape and desired culture of sport
  • Understanding of the role of the Board and management
  • Understanding of the expectations of the Director role

Experience - what you have done

  • Working with diverse stakeholders
  • Working to establish strategic direction Executive or leadership positions
  • Overseeing the successful execution of strategic objectives

Competencies - what you can do

  • Strategic decision-making
  • Earning trust
  • Compelling communication
  • Builds respect
  • Organisational acumen

Personal attributes - who you are

  • Authenticity
  • Engagement readiness
  • Building self-insight
  • Courage

Chair success profile

Key factors that contribute to being a successful chair.

Board Chair Success Profile

Knowledge - what you know

  • Knowledge of documents that guide Board operations
  • Understanding of Board charter and responsibilities
  • Knowledge of processes that ensure accountability and transparency
  • Sporting landscape and the desired culture of sport

Experience - what you have done

  • Facilitating decision - making processes
  • Fostering a culture of trust and respect
  • Prior Board experience
  • Working with various stakeholders and sustaining positive relationships

Competencies - what you can do

  • Leading the Board
  • Creating a culture of trust
  • Optimising diversity
  • Compelling communication
  • Establishes strategic direction

Personal attributes - who you are

  • Authenticity
  • Engagement readiness
  • Adaptability
  • Courage
  • Building self-insight

Advice from experienced board members

Learn more about education and training opportunities for board directors and chairs.

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