Hiring a NED or Chairman

The role of a NED or Chairman is pivotal in ensuring the right strategy and governance for companies.

Non-Executive Directors and Chairmen play a unique role in supporting CEOs, particularly in venture capital and private equity-backed companies.

Many CEOs, especially those who are first-time founders or entrepreneurs, benefit immensely from the guidance and perspective a NED can offer. Acting as a trusted advisor, a NED can provide a sounding board for major strategic decisions, ensuring the CEO remains focused on long-term objectives.

Neon River has deep experience of leading NED and Chairman searches for clients in the technology and games sectors.

Chairman

Leads the board and governance structure
Sets agenda and facilitates effective meetings
Mentors and supports the CEO
Ensures board diversity and effectiveness
Acts as external ambassador where needed

Non-Executive Director

Offers independent judgement and challenge
Brings functional or industry expertise
Monitors executive performance
Supports strategy, investment and risk oversight
Ensures strong governance and compliance

The Modern Board Member

The landscape of Non-Executive Director (NED) hiring has evolved dramatically. Gone are the days when the traditional old boys network dominated board appointments. Today’s tech companies seek board members with recent executive experience who bring commercial insight, operational expertise, and a genuine understanding of fast-moving digital markets.

Diversity in background, skills, and perspectives is no longer just desirable — it is essential for effective governance and innovation. A modern board leader must balance strategic vision with hands-on experience in technology and growth, ensuring the company is ready to navigate complex challenges in a global landscape.

At Neon River, we understand this shift deeply. Our network and search approach are designed to find exceptional board talent who are not only diverse but who have proven track records of delivering results in high-growth tech environments.