The GCC Board Directors Institute (GCC BDI), a not-for-profit organization that helps board directors acquire the know-how and tools to achieve and sustain effective governance, announced that its Board Secretary Certification Program is now recognized by the Human Resources Development Fund (HRDF) in Saudi Arabia.
HRDF is a Saudi government authority that was established by a royal decree in July 2000 under the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development. The fund provides financial support to organizations that train and qualify Saudis in the private sector.
Saudi nationals who complete the full certification program and become certified board secretaries can apply for a partial refund from HRDF up to a value of SR5,400 ($1,440).
Jane Valls, executive director of GCC BDI, said: “Board secretaries occupy a unique position in organizations. They are the key points of contact for the chairman, as well as central members of the senior management team. They bridge the gap between the boardroom and the executive due to their privileged access to both. However, the role and its value are frequently misunderstood and overlooked, which can result in board dysfunction and the failure of the board secretary to deliver effectively. GCC BDI’s Certified Board Secretary Program seeks to address these misconceptions and help board secretaries gain clarity on their responsibilities vis-à-vis all stakeholders in the corporate governance system.”
She added: “We are proud of the recognition of our Certified Board Secretary Program by HRDF. The support of the fund will enable more Saudi nationals to benefit from the program in line with the objective of Saudi Vision 2030 to develop the country’s human capital and empower its citizens to reach their full potential.”
The Certified Board Secretary Program is designed for new and aspiring board secretaries, as well as seasoned board secretaries who have not had any formal professional training. The foundation course is also suitable for governance professionals, anyone involved in company law and regulatory compliance, and employees who are responsible for corporate governance or who are seeking a better understanding of the role of the board secretary. The four-module program prepares participants to provide professional guidance on the governance aspects of strategic decisions to shareholders, boards, directors, management and other stakeholders.
GCC BDI is the most influential network of senior board directors in the GCC region with more than 2,000 members.
