
How good governance strengthens awarding organisations
Learn how effective governance strengthens awarding organisations, with practical insights on decision-making, risk and diversity.
Practical governance advice from sector leaders
Sector leaders shared clear, practical guidance for anyone looking to strengthen governance:
“It is about having the different skill set on that board that can input into the whole mission of the organisation.”
James Stockdale, Chair of the OCN London Board“Everything that colleagues have said, but also to look 12 to 24 months ahead, do your planning early!”
Emma Hoare, NCFE
One leader also shared how open recruitment strengthened their board:
“Coming from an established organisation, I think for me it’s agree your strategy, undertake a skills gap, and get on the phone to Peridot!
Working with a recruitment agency was sort of transformative. I think only being the Chief Exec for 18 months, my understanding was that trustees were selected almost with favour of who knows who, as opposed to any formalised procedure. That casts the net much wider than immediate networks, so we managed to get people from a top four accounting firm, for example, and their input has improved our board tremendously.”
Carlos Cubillo-Barsi, OCN London
Category:Awarding organisations, membership & skills

Written by
Kristina Preston
Director | Awarding, Assessment & Professional Education
With over 10 years of recruitment experience at every level across the education and skills sectors, Kristina is skilled in the appointment of roles covering the design, development, delivery and quality assurance of educational products and services in awarding organisations, AAOs and professional membership bodies. She leads the partnership with the Federation of Awarding Bodies as their Platinum Supplier of executive search, recruitment, and board development services.
Kristina enjoys the camaraderie, collaboration, innovation, determination, and passion of the sectors she supports and advocates for this niche area of the UK and worldwide education system. She recognizes the far-reaching impact of awarding and skills qualifications at all levels, raising aspirations and helping people access life-changing qualifications and training.
Outside of work, Kristina recently became a mother and enjoys family travel. After 15 years as a competitive cheerleader, she serves as a Non-Executive Director on the board of SportCheer England, working toward official sport recognition. Kristina is also learning Polish to connect with her heritage and is an avid Aston Villa fan.
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