Testimonials
Feedback From Our
Program Participants
Our Alumni and our Faculty are the centre of our universe both during the program and after. Here’s what they have to say about our Programs.
More Testimonials
Janelle Marr (GCB.D)
Board Member, Tourism Western Australia; Managing Director, StepBeyond Strategy
“A really valuable accreditation and structured in a way that caters to those who are passionate about learning more about ESG in Board settings, but are also time-poor and need flexibility. Presentations from subject matter experts were really valuable and the group assessment was a great deal of fun – enabling deeper connections with like-minded individuals who I know I will stay in touch with in future.”
(Australia)
Tinuade Awe (GCB.D)
CEO, Nigeria Exchange Group
“This was a great course. I recommend it to any executive seeking a deep dive into contemporary sustainability issues and the lastest thinking on how to address them.”
(Nigeria)
Kee Wong (GCB.D)
Non-Executive Board Member, CAR Group
“A great course, covering a broader spectrum of ESG than most organisations will expect.”
(Australia)
Aileen McManamon (GCB.D)
Board Member, 5T Sports Group
“The CB Board Designation program provides an exceptionally well-rounded exploration of the critical business risk topics every firm faces today. This course and network delivers the grounding that Board members need to meet the challenges and opportunities of the new economy.”
(Canada)
Tobi Petrocelli (GCB.D)
Board member, Terran Orbital; Head of Sustainability, MUFG Bank
“Incredibly insightful and inspirational course, driving the next generation of board directors to become invaluable assets to people, the planet and the economy.”
(USA)
Sejal Haribhakti Mody (GCB.D)
HR Head - Supply Chain, Legal and Sustainability, South Asia, Hindustan Unilever (HUL)
“Super experience and a really well structured program! Highly recommend it to any leader interested in gaining perspectives on Sustainability in the context of governance and key trends!”
(India)
Peter Devlin (GCB.D)
Chair of the Board, Colleges and Institutes Canada’s Board (CICan); President, Fanshawe College
“I highly recommend the Competent Boards Sustainability and ESG Program. The faculty and peers share wisdom and tremendous experience while guiding rich discussions and reinforcing important lessons. Competent Boards positions you to be a guardian of the future.”
(Canada)
Andrew Fraser (GCB.D)
Board Director, ATB Financial
“I really found value in the global aspect of the speakers and topics. Differing perspectives added greatly to the learning.”
(Canada)
Sibylle Barden (GCB.D)
Member, Board of Trustees, Cologne Forum for International Relations and Security Policies; Principal, Sibylle Barden
“What sets Competent Boards apart is their commitment to excellence. They don’t just promise results; they deliver them. By participating in this course, you’ll not only stay ahead of the curve but also position yourself as a leader in the global landscape of ESG education.”
(Germany)
Jene’ Palmer (GCB.D)
Non-Executive Director, Palmer Business Concepts (Pty) Ltd
“This course and exposure to industry experts pushed me out of my comfort zone. I can confidently say that I am a much more informed board director.”
(South Africa)
Ivana Osagie (GCB.D)
Board Member, Professional Women Roundtable
“I have enriched and broadened my knowledge by attending the course. I enjoyed the depth of conversation, variety of perspectives/topics/speakers and the insights shared by the speakers and other participants. I’m glad I enrolled in the program.”
(Nigeria)
Maryse Saint-Laurent (GCB.D)
Non-executive Board Member, Turquoise Hill Resources Ltd., Alberta Securities Commission, Pretivm Resources Inc
“Great program with great leanings that provide a broad perspective on the application and development of ESG priorities globally.”
(Canada)
Sunil Deshmukh (GCB.D)
Global Board Director, Leadership Coach, Sunil Deshmukh C-Suite Lab LLP
“Excellent Certificate program, you prepare the participants to carry out skills in the real world. Keep up the good work.”
(India)
Danica Djurkovic (GCB.D) (CCB.D)
Associate Vice President, Campus Planning and Facilities, British Columbia Institute of Technology
“I very much enjoyed and learned from both Competent Board’s designation Programs. They are thoughtfully designed with an access to world class speakers. Highly recommend to all current and future Board members and senior leaders.”
(Canada)
María Clara Herdoiza Ramirez (GCB.D)
Corporate Affairs Superintendent
“The ESG programme was a very enlightening experience, the speakers presented their experiences with clarity and made us rethink how to implement ESG strategies in our daily activities. I highly recommend it.”
(Ecuador)
Garry Willinge (GCB.D)
Independent Non-Executive Director
“Though the focus of this course is Sustainability and ESG, it is one of the best all round director training events I have attended in my many years as a director and I recommend it to all professional directors.”
(Hong Kong)
Martin Wolf
Chief Economics Commentator, Financial Times
“Invaluable guidance on what boards must do if the businesses they guide are to respond successfully to today’s enormous economic, environmental and social challenges.”
(United Kingdom)
Charles O. Holliday Jr.
Chair, The Mission Possible Partnership; Former Chair, Royal Dutch Shell and Bank of America
“There are a lot of development programs out there. This one is very, very, unique. You gain from talking to people that come from different walks of life, different companies and different situations, which prepares you to be a better board member.”
(USA)
Claudia Sender
Non-Executive Director, Telefonica, Embraer, Holcim and Gerdau
“Through practical examples and real-life experiences, these programs will help any leader who wants to keep up with new environmental, ethical, financial and societal demands.”
(Brazil)
Manjit Sharma (GCB.D)
Board Director EDC, Vermilion Energy, Finning International
“This course is a must for board members who would like to speak intelligibly about the ESG ramifications of decisions being made today in the boardroom.”
(Canada)
Deb Henretta (GCB.D)
Senior Advisor and Independent Board Director, Corning Inc, American Eagle Outfitters, Meritage Homes and NiSource
“A comprehensive, inclusive and global look at all things ESG. It offers a terrific forum to learn from experts and interact with peers to both solve the challenging ESG problems we face, and leverage business growth opportunities in the ESG space.”
(United States)
Eric Wetlaufer (GCB.D)
Managing Partner, TwinRiver Capital and Board Member, TMX Group, Investment Management Corporation of Ontario (IMCO), Enterra Solutions LLC, and Niyogin Fintech Ltd.
“The Competent Boards Program is hands down the best director education out there. Global in its scope, deep in its content, extraordinary speakers and excellent interactivity, I am so glad I found it (or it found me!)”
(Canada)
Leslie F. Seidman (GCB.D)
Former Chair, Financial Accounting Standards Board (Fasb), Non-Executive Director and Audit Chair, Moody’s Corp. & General Electric
“I think this program is more relevant than ever, and I would highly recommend it. I feel better equipped to oversee ESG and sustainability issues in my board rooms. Take a look at the topics covered over the 12 sessions to give yourself a sense of the breadth and depth of the curriculum.”
(USA)
Peter Bowie (CCB.D)
Independent Director, Magna International, Xebec, FedNav, DMZ Accelerator
“The practical learning from the combination of knowledgeable global leaders in a variety of industrial and academic organizations, the experience and expertise of the program’s leaders, and regular interactions with the participating board members, from many countries and organizations, was remarkable. The program exceeded my expectations.”
(Canada)
Connie Carras (GCB.D)(CCB.D)
Independent Director
“I credit the Climate Competent Boards program for giving me at least two new opportunities to serve on Boards of Directors.”
(Canada)
John O’Bryan (GCB.D)
Board Member, CT REIT
“The broad scope of the course opened my eyes to aspects of ESG initiatives that I had not considered before. Also, the broad geography and experience of the attendees added perspectives that would have not been available without participating in the course. Exceptional experience.”
(Canada)
Dennis Montecillo (GCB.D)
Independent Director Bank of Commerce, Philippines
“The best, most well-curated, and highly-credentialed certificate program I have ever attended! A course on the relevant issues for consideration as the world pivots towards a more circular economy and sustainable future.”
(Philippines)
Nicole Paquin (GCB.D)
Corporate Director, Logistec Corporation
“What makes this course a step above many others is the quality and experience of speakers who are global industry experts as well as the fellow participants who were from all over the globe! The discussions were open, transparent and very practical.”
(Canada)
Robert Buchanan (GCB.D)
Director, Investor Relations, Karora Resource Inc.
“The Competent Boards ESG Designation Program provided an excellent opportunity to learn first hand from experts with real world experience. Not only was the course a great education in ESG matters, but also in how today’s Boards function and are evolving to adapt in a rapidly changing world.”
(Canada)
Darice Gubbins (GCB.D)
Head of Sustainability, Credicorp
“This has been such a valuable experience; the discussions, case studies, group conversations have been so enriching! A must when working with Boards and when driving sustainability forward at any organization.”
(Peru)
Indraneel Bhattacharyya (GCB.D)
Sr. Vice President - Global Compliance and Operational Risk, Bank of America
The ESG Designation program is a very structured and professionally executed global program which should be a must on every senior executive’s to-do list. (United States)
Agnes K Y Tai
Chief EC.ESG Investment Strategist, BlueOnion
Highly recommended for business leaders who wish to broaden perspectives and deepen knowledge around climate governance and sustainability…I’ve benefited from practical insights shared by the seasoned speakers and my well-experienced cohort. Thanks to Helle and her wonderful team for this high-quality program.
Catherine Reynolds (GCB.D)
Independent Chair and Non-Executive Director, MI Global Partners
“I can’t applaud Competent Boards’ approach to governance enough. Helle and her extraordinary cohort of guest speakers, global ESG experts and proven organisational innovators are rapidly educating board directors and executives to actively transition to net zero. Educate yourself and be prepared to rethink everything you thought you knew.”
(Australia)
Rita Lazar-Tippe
2021 CIO of the Year; Board Member; Director of Information, Data Insights, Innovation, and IT
A great program both in content and global peer networking.
Hillary Thatcher
Senior Director, Indigenous and Northern Infrastructure, Canada Infrastructure Bank
This was an incredible program with outstanding faculty and a fabulous and diverse network of peers – a global experience indeed. Thank you Competent Boards for a remarkable experience!
Alizabeth Calder
Independent Director; CIO
An excellent program in both depth and breadth. The best director-relevant ESG program available – well worth the time and investment.
Karen McDonald
Director, Government Relations Central 1 Credit Union
When I enrolled in the program, my understanding of the implications of climate change to my company was superficial, at best. The program struck a great balance that made it relevant and useful to a “beginner” like me, but also provided a deeper dive that engaged those with more robust experience and knowledge. It really drove home that climate change is a risk and responsibility every sector must manage.
Emily Waita Macharia
Africa Public Affairs Director For Coca-Cola Africa
I wanted to understand various aspects of climate change, how they are being addressed and how best to influence key stakeholders and other leaders to make meaningful change. I learnt new concepts that I didn’t even know existed. This program gave me a thorough deep dive and world-class perspectives on effectively addressing climate change.
Catherine Sigmar
VP Strategy & Chief Legal Officer, Tecsys Canada
The program delivered practical guidance on how to embed climate risk into business strategy. I left the program much more knowledgeable and with actionable objectives. I highly recommend the program to anyone who wants to learn to navigate these issues in an intelligent and professional way. I look at my role and our company’s future through an entirely new lens. It was excellent.
Mel Hewitson
CMInstD, AIF
The program’s focus on aligning and integrating climate action with the company’s purpose and long term value creation was key for me. I now feel better equipped to lead my board colleagues and engage with those advising us in this critical area of accountability to our stakeholders.
Joy Jennissen
Board Chair, Dr Peter AIDS Foundation; Advisor, Jennissen Group
I really enjoyed connecting with colleagues around the world and was very impressed with the calibre of speakers and program. I am looking forward to implementing the learnings and insights I have gathered and I would highly recommend this program. Join me in guiding all boards toward climate competency!
Lisa Dominato
Vancouver City Councillor, Canada
I learned a lot and really enjoyed the format. I think the content was extraordinarily well done.
Henning Stein
Global Head of Thought Leadership, Invesco (Switzerland)
I would not just recommend it – I would insist upon it! This has been by far one of the most worthwhile initiatives I have taken part in during my continuing professional development. The program is superbly constructed, supremely relevant and highly effective.
Another great reason for participating is the opportunity to meet so many amazing people. The whole experience has been extremely rewarding on every level.
Pamela Strifler
Vice President of Global Stakeholder Strategy and Affairs, Bayer Crop Science
I would highly recommend the Competent Boards Program as you will hear from Global leaders, engage in real-time issues and dive into the complexities that Boards must consider in decision making, including ESG which affects the long-term reputation and viability of the company. This program is for current executives, management teams presenting to Boards or prospective Board members.
Lee Kindberg
Head of Environment, Health, Safety and Sustainability for Maersk Line in North America
As a result of taking this program I’ve found increased sophistication in my thinking about the issues and in the information and thoughts I provide both internally and externally. The quality of the speakers and materials is exceptional, and the execution of the distance learning concept is the best I have ever experienced.
Paul Polman
Business leader, campaigner, co-author of “Net Positive"
Incredible initiative. Competent Boards shares knowledge, experience and insight to help train board members on how to capitalize on the opportunities the SDGs present. I urge all leaders to stay informed and check out the global programs that Competent Boards offers.
Maria Jamriska-Mulder
Senior Advisor, Central Risk Management, ABN AMRO Bank and Co-Owner/Director, Apollo Capital
The insights, oversights and perspectives have definitely strengthened my mindset towards the need for integrated opportunity, risk and impact thinking, acting and reporting, with the SDGs as a lighthouse. Not only will I recommend the program to my peers, but would also like to come back one year from now as the pace of the sustainability space is fast moving and dynamic.
Katie Schmitz Eulitt
Director, Investor Outreach at SASB – Sustainability Accounting Standards Board, USA
I highly recommend the Competent Boards Certificate Program. The case study-based program puts one in the proverbial shoes of corporate board members re-examining the strategies and practices of the companies of which they are stewards, related to ESG issues which many corporate boards are currently ill-equipped to do. This certificate program is well worth your time and investment.
Poonam Madan
Director, Sustainability Strategy and Reporting, Capital Power
I have not seen that wealth of experience and engagement in any other program related to this topic making the program exceptionally unique. My cohort of very senior and executive leaders brought their experiences forward, and the structure of the program allowed us to share our ideas in a very pragmatic way, only enhancing our learnings.
Tim Bekhuys
Vice President, Environment & Community Relations at SSR Mining
I would without hesitancy recommend this Program to others. The speakers were incredible and the structure was well suited to professionals. As ESG continues to gain importance in the Boardroom, the CB Certificate Program will prepare current and future board members for the challenge.
Monique Kack-North
Vice President, Supply Chain Solutions, Logistics Solutions & Services Inc.
I thoroughly enjoyed the bi-weekly session discussions with exceptionally talented and diverse fellow cohorts from which I increased my knowledge and insights. I highly recommend this program to others and have colleagues that have signed up to also experience this unique learning opportunity.
Maureen Metcalf
Founder and CEO, Innovative Leadership Institute
I believe the Competent Boards program is the most comprehensive in the market, and ESG needs to be a crucial focus for effective board members in the future. I gained a much more comprehensive understanding of the breadth and depth of ESG topics and how to put them into practice as a board member. I highly recommend the program. The speakers are the top people in the world in their fields.
Genevieve Young
Independent Director, Auxly Cannabis Group; Chair, Audit Committee; Director, Hello.Me
As a Chair I was looking to understand the ESG landscape as the organization is just embarking on its own ESG path. I didn’t feel equipped to effectively participate in this discussion. Now, I feel like I have a sufficiently wide and deeper understanding of not only the upcoming disclosure requirements but also the opportunities inherent in an effective ESG program.
Christine Diamante
Managing Director, Business Transformation, BSR
I gained an extraordinary network of colleagues who I look forward to engaging with and continuously learning from. I can’t recommend the program enough to any interested leaders!
Anar Shamji Popatia
Corporate Director
The program surpassed my expectations! It was excellent in its delivery, content and relevance. Hearing from international esteemed speakers and working with a cohort of directors from around the world gave me a global perspective of emerging issues and opportunities facing directors today. I highly recommend the program to those who want to future-proof their boards.
Juan Copeland
CEO, Corporate Properties of the Americas
It was an eye opener and a great start to better understand high-impact areas that world-class companies are looking at today and what sustainability leaders are focusing their time and effort on.
Pia Laub
Board Member, ALM. Brand A/S, The Danish National Center for Grief and the New Carlsberg Glyptotek
I had high expectations before joining the program, and I got even more out of it. It gave me a tremendous amount of inspiration and new insights. I feel the program has contributed significantly to my personal development and strengthened the competencies and skills that I bring to use in my board positions. I see it as an extremely relevant and high-quality program for board members and business leaders, both with regards to content and to learning process.
Shailesh Haribhakti
Chairman, Blue Star LTD, Larsen&Toubro Financial Holdings LTD, NSDL E-Governance Infrastructure Co of India LTD, and Independent Director of Lafarge Holcim Subsidiaries, ACCLTD and Ambuja Cements LTD.
The permanent value I have derived is so immense, that anyone acceding to my recommendation to take this course is likely to be grateful!
Thomas Gann
Chief Public Policy Officer, Mcafee, LLC
Helle Bank Jorgensen and her team at ESG Competent Boards do an amazing job of keeping Directors up to date on the most cutting issues facing management today. On a personal note, I cannot think of a professional who I have enjoyed working with more than Helle – she is a total professional and an ace in every way. She is very deserving of the peer recognition she has received.
Vibeke Bak-Solok
Board Member Co-Ro and Danica Pension Norway, Former EVP and COO for Group Risk Functions, Danske Bank
The Competent Boards Certificate programme gave me valuable knowledge on sustainability, ESG, and how global leaders are working to change the mindset of individuals across a variety of industries.
Welcome, which course are you interested in:
Primarily discuss the topics through the lens of serving on the board. You must be serving on at least one board with fiduciary responsibility to enter this stream.
Discuss the topics through a wide range of business perspectives (including the board) and comprise senior executives, investors, and board advisors.