Directors highlight boards’ roles in navigating future of work

With the advent of digital technological advancements, directors have emphasised the responsibilities of boards in navigating the future of work.

They said employees must live up to date to remain relevant, not only in the profession but also on a personal level.

A director, Halima Bello, in an article on ‘The Future of Work and Board Responsibilities’, said boards play a crucial role in the development and exploration of hybrid working and in navigating the future of work.

She highlighted workplace practices, leveraging artificial intelligence (AI), performance management, corporate culture and diversity and inclusion as some measures of how boards could navigate the future of work.

She said with increasingly rapid technology change, it has become imperative for boards to prepare their workforces for future change to ensure long-term success. 

Bello said the impact of the changes was profound on governance, which requires them to be flexible in their response to the changing nature of work.

She urged that the optimal goal of boards shouldn’t just be leading with technology but adopting strategies to achieve an optimal balance between people and technology.

She added that board members who proactively embrace the changes are on the path to thrive in a competitive and dynamic world.

Celine Okoroma-Vincent said continuous learning and reskilling are no longer optional but essential initiatives for organisational survival and success.

Noting that boards play a pivotal role in driving and supporting the initiatives, she said by setting the strategic direction, allocating resources and fostering a culture of learning, boards can empower their employees to stay relevant, competitive, and engaged.

According to her, by investing in the development of their workforce, organisations could position themselves for long-term growth and prosperity.

An independent board director at CAP Plc, Udo Okonjo, said directors stand at a pivotal moment in the evolution of leadership.

She said the future of work would be defined by their ability to embrace digital transformation, not just as a technology initiative but as a fundamental shift in how they think, lead and operate. 

Noting that the time to act was now, she urged boards to lead by example, champion digital transformation and prepare their organisations for a future where digital leadership was the norm, not an exception.

“By adopting a digital leadership mindset, we can ensure that our organisations are not only prepared for the challenges ahead but are also positioned to thrive in the new digital era,” she added.

Director, Dr Orlando Odejide said the new era calls for bold, experimental, and contrarian boards.

He said it requires the courage to challenge deeply held assumptions about work, governance, and value creation.

According to him, only by embracing this mindset can boards fulfil their responsibilities in shaping the future of work.

Another director, Irene Opara, said the next generation of work should not be an afterthought but a deliberate and strategic approach that considers the organisation’s activities, products, services and growth.