Board Member Job Description
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Company overview
We are a globally established company with headquarters in [Europe / Asia / EMEA / LatAm], actively scaling our presence in the United States. As we continue this growth trajectory, we are seeking an experienced and strategic Board Member to provide independent oversight, governance, and commercial guidance to our U.S. operations. This individual will contribute a U.S.-based perspective and help align our global strategy with local execution.
Board Member role summary
As a member of the Board of Directors, you will serve as a strategic advisor to the CEO and executive leadership team, helping guide the company through critical decisions related to growth, governance, compliance, and capital strategy. The ideal candidate brings executive or board-level experience within the U.S. market and understands how to support the unique challenges faced by international businesses operating stateside.
Board Member key responsibilities
Governance & Fiduciary Oversight
Ensure proper governance frameworks are followed, meeting all legal and ethical standards applicable to U.S. operations.
Strategic Advising
Provide guidance on market strategy, risk management, competitive positioning, and key growth initiatives in the U.S.
Performance Monitoring
Review and assess executive performance, organizational KPIs, and financial results in alignment with the company’s strategic plan.
Risk & Compliance
Help navigate legal, regulatory, and operational risks relevant to operating in the U.S. market. Contribute to audit and compliance committee functions as needed.
Capital and Fundraising Guidance
Advise on funding strategies, investor relations, and potential M&A or joint ventures relevant to U.S. expansion.
CEO & Leadership Support
Act as a sounding board for the CEO and U.S. leadership team. Offer mentorship, challenge assumptions, and help resolve complex strategic issues.
Cross-Cultural Perspective
Bridge the gap between global HQ expectations and local U.S. realities by offering cultural, operational, and market-specific insights.
Candidate profile
Experience
15+ years of executive leadership experience, preferably with board service, in U.S.-based companies or the U.S. arms of international firms
Track Record
Experience scaling or advising international businesses in the U.S. is highly preferred
Leadership
Independent, objective, and capable of balancing oversight with strategic partnership
Industry Expertise
Knowledge of [insert industry – e.g., biotech, manufacturing, B2B tech, logistics] strongly preferred
Governance Understanding
Familiarity with U.S. corporate governance standards, Sarbanes-Oxley (if applicable), and fiduciary duties
Communication
Skilled in challenging constructively, asking the right questions, and contributing with impact in a boardroom setting
Education
Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree or relevant board certifications (e.g., NACD, IFC, INSEAD IDP) preferred
Company culture and board dynamics
Our culture is collaborative, strategic, and purpose-driven. As a board, we value diverse perspectives, integrity, and clarity of thought. Board members are expected to engage actively, provide meaningful oversight, and serve as long-term stewards of the business. We welcome independent voices who understand the balance between governance and growth support.
Compensation and commitment
| Compensation | Competitive annual retainer and/or equity grant (depending on experience and level of engagement) |
| Meetings | Quarterly board meetings (in-person or remote), plus occasional committee meetings and strategic sessions |
| Location | U.S.-based candidates preferred; remote participation possible with ability to travel as needed |
| Term | Initial term of 2–3 years, renewable by mutual agreement |
Why Board Members matters
This role isn’t just about oversight. It’s about helping an international company make the right strategic moves in a complex U.S. environment. You’ll influence long-term decisions, support executive leadership, and ensure that growth happens with clarity, compliance, and purpose.
FAQ
They oversee governance, strategy, and fiduciary duty, monitor company performance, ensure legal compliance, and support the executive team — serving as strategic stewards.
Common questions include their motivation, alignment with mission/values, relevant experience, and how they would add strategic and fiduciary value.
Requires governance understanding, financial literacy, strategic insight, domain knowledge, impartial judgment, stakeholder communication, and time commitment.
For strong governance, effective boards typically have 8–10 members, with key committees like audit and compensation fully independent to avoid conflicts of interest.