Board evaluation template

Board composition

Assess whether your board has the right mix of skills, experience, independence and diversity to govern effectively, now and for the challenges ahead.

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Board composition
How to use this template

Sample board composition questions

Board composition determines the range of perspectives brought to every decision. This template helps the board examine whether its current mix of skills, tenure, independence and background is fit for the organisation’s strategy, and whether renewal is being managed with enough foresight.

These questions are a sample of the BoardOutlook board composition diagnostic. The complete diagnostic is intended to be used on the BoardOutlook platform.

  • The board has the right balance of skills and experience to oversee the organisation’s strategy.
  • The mix of independence, tenure and background on the board is appropriate.
  • The board has a clear, forward-looking view of the capabilities it will need.
  • Board renewal and succession are managed proactively rather than reactively.
  • The board reflects the diversity of thought needed for robust decision-making.
Why it matters

Why board composition matters

The effectiveness of a board begins with who sits around the table. Gaps in capability, over-concentration of tenure, or a lack of independence quietly constrain the quality of oversight long before they become visible.

Reviewing composition regularly lets the board plan renewal deliberately, match capability to where the organisation is heading, and preserve the independence and diversity that underpin sound judgment.

Board composition

More than a template

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Questions

Board composition FAQs

What should a board composition review cover

A composition review typically examines the balance of skills and experience, independence, tenure and diversity, and compares the board’s current profile against the capabilities its strategy will require.

How does this relate to a skills matrix

A skills matrix maps individual director capability in detail. Composition sits above it, considering the board as a whole, including independence, tenure and diversity alongside skills.

How often should composition be reviewed

At least annually, and ahead of any planned director appointment or retirement, so renewal can be managed with adequate runway.

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  • The board composition template, plus 12 more topics
  • Tested across hundreds of organisations
  • Ready for questionnaires or facilitated discussion

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