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Beyond experience and credentials

A framework that focuses on real contribution and behaviour.
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board effectiveness reviews

The DRIVE framework for director effectiveness

Director effectiveness reviews are built on the DRIVE framework, a contemporary model grounded in how directors are perceived in practice — inside the boardroom.

The framework was developed using more than 24,000 peer comments from reviews of more than 1,250 directors.

DRIVE recognises that some directors look strong “on paper” but struggle to apply their strengths effectively in the boardroom — whether due to judgement, behaviour, or the ability to influence group outcomes.
The five DRIVE dimensions are:

Shaping and influencing long-term success through strategic foresight and disciplined focus on purpose, positioning and performance.

Building trust and a respectful, psychologically safe boardroom culture, using credibility and emotional intelligence to lift group performance.

Being curious and well prepared, asking probing questions, synthesising complexity, and elevating debate and decision quality.

Modelling integrity, professionalism and composure, strengthening trust and the integrity of the board’s culture.

Fulfilling fiduciary duties and oversight without blurring into management, balancing scrutiny with support and focusing board time on what matters.
The same framework applies to all directors, including those acting as chair or committee chair. Separate chair and committee chair reviews are also available.

Focusing on contribution, not credentials

The DRIVE Framework is deliberately focused on observed contribution and behaviour, rather than background, qualifications or experience alone. Directors may have strong credentials, but effectiveness is demonstrated through how those attributes are applied in board discussions and decision-making.

By grounding assessment in the DRIVE dimensions, the framework helps distinguish between capability held in theory and contribution demonstrated in practice.

Download the Director Effectiveness Framework

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If your board is seeking an independent way to strengthen director contribution while maintaining trust and cohesion, we would welcome the opportunity to talk.
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