Governance at CLI

At the Centre for Leadership Insight (CLI), we are committed to excellence in governance to ensure that our mission and objectives are achieved with integrity, transparency, and accountability. Our governance framework is designed to provide effective oversight, strategic leadership, and operational excellence as we strive to transform leadership practices across all sectors.

As a non-profit organisation operating as a Company Limited by Guarantee (CLG), CLI has established a comprehensive governance structure that includes:

• Board of Directors
• Executive Director
• Advisory Committees
• Senior Associates and Fellows

This framework ensures that all activities align with our mission, comply with legal and ethical standards, and meet the highest levels of organisational effectiveness.

The Board of Directors is responsible for providing strategic leadership and setting the overall direction of CLI. Key responsibilities include:

• Strategic Oversight: Approving long-term plans, research agendas, and significant initiatives to ensure alignment with CLI's mission.

• Risk Management: Regularly assessing and mitigating operational, financial, and reputational risks.

• Compliance: Ensuring compliance with all legal, regulatory, and ethical standards relevant to a non-profit CLG.

• Performance Monitoring: Overseeing progress against strategic goals and evaluating the Executive Director's and senior staff's performance.

Director Development

• Induction and Training: New directors participate in an induction programme to understand their roles and responsibilities, with ongoing training to stay informed about governance best practices.

• Performance Evaluation: Regular assessments are conducted to ensure effective governance and identify areas for improvement.

Structure and Operation

• Meetings: The Board meets quarterly, with additional meetings as needed. Decisions are made by majority vote, following the quorum requirements outlined in CLI's constitution.

• Committees: The Board may establish specialised committees to focus on specific areas, such as:

• Research Governance Committee
• Finance and Audit Committee
• Governance, Nominations, and Remuneration Committee

The Executive Director leads CLI's day-to-day management and operational activities, serving as a vital link between the Board and the operational team.

Key Responsibilities

• Operational Leadership: Implementing strategic and operational plans approved by the Board.

• Staff Management: Leading and managing staff, fostering a culture of collaboration and high performance.

• Financial Management: Overseeing financial operations within the budgetary framework to ensure sustainability.

• External Relations: Representing CLI in external engagements, building partnerships, securing funding, and promoting our work.

• Reporting and Accountability: Regularly updating the Board on operational performance, financial status, and strategic initiatives.

• Research and Development: Present new research or service ideas to the Board to align with CLI's goals.

Structure and Operation

• Reporting: The Executive Director reports directly to the Board and undergoes regular performance evaluations.

• Delegation: Holds autonomy over day-to-day operations, with significant strategic changes requiring Board approval.

To provide focused oversight and expert guidance, CLI establishes specialised advisory committees:

Research Governance Committee

• Purpose: Ensures that all research activities adhere to high ethical and quality standards.

• Responsibilities:
  • Approving research proposals.
  • Monitoring ongoing projects for compliance and impact.
  • Advising on methodologies and publication standards.

• Membership: Comprised of directors, senior associates, and external experts.

Finance and Audit Committee

• Purpose: Oversees financial management to ensure transparency and accountability.

• Responsibilities:
  • Reviewing and approving budgets and financial reports.
  • Monitoring financial performance and addressing risks.
  • Overseeing internal controls and risk management processes.

• Membership: Includes directors with financial expertise and an independent member with audit experience.

Governance, Nominations, and Remuneration Committee

• Purpose: Oversees the governance framework, director appointments, and remuneration policies.

• Responsibilities:
  • Identifying and recruiting new directors.
  • Overseeing performance evaluations and development.
  • Setting and reviewing remuneration for senior executives.

• Membership: Composed of directors experienced in governance, human resources, and organisational development.

CLI engages experts and thought leaders as Senior Associates and Fellows to contribute to our research and strategic initiatives.

Roles and Responsibilities

• Research Contribution: Engaging in projects, providing insights, and co-authoring publications.

• Advisory Role: Serving on panels and offering guidance on strategic decisions.

• Mentorship: Supporting staff and volunteers through mentorship and training.

Structure and Operation

• Engagement: On a contractual or voluntary basis with clear terms of reference.

• Selection: Based on expertise, potential contributions, and alignment with CLI's mission.as soon as possible.

As CLI grows and funding allows, we plan to expand our governance framework to include additional directors under the Executive Director, enhancing operational management.

Proposed Future Roles

1. Director of Research and Publications
2. Director of Education and Engagement
3. Director of Finance and Administration
4. Director of Communications and Marketing
5. Director of Development and Partnerships
6. Director of Military Leadership Development

Implementation and Phasing

• Funding Contingent: Establishing these roles is contingent on funding availability and organisational growth.

• Phased Approach: Expansion will be implemented in phases to ensure effective      resource management.

CLI is committed to fostering an inclusive organisational culture that values diversity.

Diversity Goals

• Representation: Aiming for a diverse Board and staff representing different genders,      ethnicities, ages, and backgrounds.

• Measurable Targets: Setting specific targets for diversity in recruitment and leadership positions.

Inclusion Policies

• Training: Implementing training programmes on unconscious bias and inclusive leadership.

• Support Groups: Establishing employee resource groups and mentorship programmes to support underrepresented groups.

To safeguard our mission and ensure organisational resilience, CLI implements a comprehensive risk management strategy addressing operational, strategic, reputational, compliance, and financial risks.

Key Components

• Risk Assessment: Conduct quarterly risk assessments to identify and mitigate potential risks.

• Mitigation Strategies: Developing contingency plans and implementing internal controls.

• Monitoring and Reporting: Providing regular risk updates to the Board and including an annual risk management review in our reports.