2023 Director Sentiment Survey

What directors told us in 2023

The 2023 Director Sentiment Survey captured the views of 1,088 directors from across Aotearoa New Zealand, providing valuable insights into the issues and risks shaping governance during a time of economic and social uncertainty.

While economic sentiment was subdued – driven by inflation, policy instability and cost-of-living concerns – directors maintained a strong focus on board performance, long-term resilience and navigating an evolving risk landscape.

Key highlights:

• • 55% of directors expected the economy to deteriorate over the following 12 months
  • Confidence in government policy and decision-making remained low
  • Cost management, staffing, and uncertainty were top organisational concerns
  • Board performance was rated most highly in areas such as culture, ethics and risk oversight
  • 69% of directors said their board had discussed or implemented AI tools
  • 48% of directors had undertaken cyber resilience training in the last year

The findings provide a benchmark for how governance leaders are responding to change, building capability and preparing their organisations for an increasingly complex environment.

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Hear IoD and ASB experts discuss the 2020 findings:

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We hope you find this Director Sentiment Survey report insightful. We would love to hear your thoughts. Please get in touch if you have any questions or would like to discuss the report. 

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The Director Sentiment Survey is brought to you by the Institute of Directors and ASB.