Chartered Member profile - Megan McPherson

What made you decide to go for the Chartered Membership?

Upon completing the Institute of Directors' Governance Essentials course I began considering how I could become more involved in governance. The course was packed with useful information which was relevant for my work. I then decided to go for the Chartered member designation as a step towards giving back to the community and as a means of developing as a director.

How did you find the process/procedure to gain your chartered membership?

I was very fortunate to be well supported by my employer, the University of Otago, during the process. I undertook the Company Directors Course which is a prerequisite of the pathway to becoming chartered. The course content was presented in an accessible way and the course presenters were frank and honest about the reality of governance. There were several great speakers who were very generous in sharing their skills and real-world experiences. I found their openness and honesty refreshing and invaluable.

The next steps were to undertake the assignment, case study and exam. I felt supported throughout the process by the Institute of Directors. I enjoyed the process and much of what I picked up could be applied back my work and, in fact, to life more broadly.

What is the value to you of being a Chartered Member?

There is a level of confidence gained by going through the process that reassures you that you have covered key areas of governance. It is an effective and positive way to bring all your previous learning together and meet with like-minded people. For me, two important points of differences of the IoD is how they teach the practical frameworks and necessary regulations, which are supported by useful resources, and also the experienced speakers on the courses. I have also increased my network of people working in governance. Coming from public relations and reputation management, I enjoyed working with and learning from people from other disciplines and backgrounds ranging from law and finance through to people running businesses and not- for-profit organisations.

What did you learn along the way?

Becoming a chartered member has helped me realise I would like to expand my governance portfolio. Currently I am on the foundation trust of Columba College.

The process has shown me that I am ready to do this role now. The requirements of chartered membership demonstrated to me that there is not much that is unsolvable, no matter how large the challenge or problem is. The process gave us the means to approach to solve problems and, as importantly, offer timely value to an organisation strategically.

What do you enjoy most about governance?

For me the best aspect of having a governance role is the ability to add value to the performance, culture and strategy of an organisation.

What’s next? What are your aspirations?

I would like to contribute more to my region by taking on more governance roles. I am excited to see positive growth in Dunedin, and more broadly in Otago. It’s a fantastic place to live and bring up a family. For me, it’s time now to contribute in a meaningful way to our unlimited and fantastic future in the South.

What is your advice for someone considering becoming a chartered member?

If they are at a point where they are accomplished at what they do in their profession, then they should think about all the skills they have. It is likely that they probably underestimate their abilities and how they can take them and grow them into governance skills. Many people have more ability and ways to contribute than they realise. I strongly believe that the IoD courses, and the journey to becoming chartered, helps you to identify strengths, work on weaknesses and develop into a good director.

Learn more about IoD's Chartered Membership Pathway