Cybersecurity, tech skills key in India Inc's checklist for independent directors: Survey
tech, cybersecurity and risk is becoming a key attribute that companies are looking for in non-executive independent directors, as India Inc takes proactive steps to remain agile and prepare for any potential disruption, a survey has revealed.
Independent directors with specialised knowledge contribute valuable insights, ask critical questions and also offer guidance on complex matters. Hence companies are expected to witness higher representation from such sectors in the next two years on their boards, according to the India Board Report 2023-24, brought out by executive search firm Hunt Partners, in association with law firm AZB & Partners and consulting firm PwC.
Domain knowledge of digital and tech is expected to be the basis for 83% of new independent director appointments in the next two years at BSE 200 companies and other large organisations, show the findings of the survey, shared exclusively with ET. Cybersecurity and product developments will be the criteria for 70% and 50% of appointments.
“The pandemic and related lessons in crisis management have helped make boards more resilient and nimbler in reacting to unexpected disruptions — and boards are learning from these to focus on the next set of possible supply chains and other disruptions arising from other external risks as they arise,” said Zia Mody, managing partner, AZB & Partners.
“The importance of corporate reputation and the value of stakeholder trust in the corporate brand is
