Board members’ capacity

Your board should develop and promote a collective vision for the organisation’s purpose that mirrors its objectives (see our section on introduction to sports governance). Aligned to that vision will be the body’s internal operating climate, culture, behaviours and values; these will be established by the board and articulated and embodied in their actions. The board will provide good governance and leadership by:

• understanding their role;
• ensuring delivery of organisational purpose;
• working effectively both as individuals and as a team;
• exercising effective control and autonomy, where appropriate;
• behaving with integrity;
• being open and accountable; and
• creating and maintaining an inclusive work/volunteer environment.

A successful board is not necessarily a comfortable place all of the time. Challenging viewpoints as well as teamwork is essential and should be welcomed by board members and by senior management/executive. This can be achieved, in part, through having diversity in the boardroom in terms of race, gender, disability or other demographics of your membership.

Board diversity

Diversity is an important factor in a board’s effectiveness, creating a breadth of perspective among board members and senior managers and breaking down any inclination towards ‘group think’. This is reflected in Principle 2 of the Code for Sports Governance: ‘Organisations shall recruit and engage people with appropriate diversity of background, independence, skills and experience to take effective decisions that further the organisation’s goals and best serve their communities, stakeholders and wider UK society.’

More broadly, research has shown that greater diversity in organisations is a predictor of performance. Diversity has been shown to be an important factor in innovation, more informed decision making and greater effectiveness (achieving organisational goals). The accompanying commentary in the Code for Sports Governance explains the rationale behind the requirement and what is expected of organisations to achieve this.