Ethics, Objectivity, Dynamics, and Governance: Insights from NED Leadership Lab 2

On 17 June 2025, Moon Executive Search, in collaboration with VWV, Narrow Quay HR, and Circle 2 Success, hosted the second NED Leadership Lab – an exclusive gathering of Non-Executive Directors (NEDs), Chairs, and Trustees.

Set against the backdrop of Bristol’s harbourside at VWV’s Narrow Quay offices, the event brought together leaders across sectors to share insight, explore boardroom challenges, and engage in lively, practical discussion.

Ethical Leadership as a Competitive Advantage

In his keynote, Ed Rowberry, CEO of BBRC, shared how ethical leadership is no longer a “nice to have – it’s fundamental to productivity, culture, and performance… Ethical business isn’t a department; it’s your culture,” Ed said, outlining how aligning values, purpose, and people leads to happier teams and stronger results.

Drawing on experience from BBRC’s award-winning impact investment work, Ed challenged attendees to see ethics not as a constraint – but as a path to innovation, trust, and long-term value.

Independence and Objectivity in the Boardroom

Jos Moule, Partner and Corporate Lawyer at VWV, highlighted how true board effectiveness begins with independence. He advised NEDs to avoid groupthink and remain strategically curious. Jos laid out how a strong NED presence ensures objectivity, encourages challenge, and enhances resilience – particularly in today’s complex risk landscape.

Jos also spoke from experience, not just as a lawyer but as a long-serving trustee for local and national institutions, bringing both technical and human perspectives to governance.

Tenure, Succession, and Board Dynamics

Laura Chesham, Charity Partner at VWV, shifted focus to the practicalities of board structure – specifically, the importance of fixed terms and succession planning. She said that Boards need fresh thinking, but also memory. Laura advised organisations to use skills audits and staggered exits to avoid inertia while preserving knowledge.

She also spoke about managing exit transitions effectively, emphasising that clarity around tenure can prevent unnecessary friction and open space for new voices.

The Impact of New Regulation

Closing the event, Terence Dickens, VWV’s financial services specialist, provided an in-depth look at the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act. From tougher identity checks to enhanced Companies House powers, the new legislation introduces significant responsibilities for board members – particularly around transparency and anti-money laundering compliance.

For attendees, Terence’s talk was a powerful reminder that governance isn’t just about ethics – it’s also about compliance, risk, and protecting organisational integrity.

The evening was rounded off by Director of Executive Search & Leadership Consulting at Moon, Simon Quinn, who closed the event with thanks to the speakers, partners, and all who took part in the discussions. Conversations continued over drinks and nibbles.

After the event, reflecting on the evening, Simon said:

“It’s fantastic to see this community growing. This was the second event in our NED Leadership Lab series, and we’re so proud to work with such trusted partners to create space for practical learning, reflection, and shared leadership. The calibre of the conversation and the openness in the room really shows how committed people are to raising governance standards and building stronger boards.”

We extend heartfelt thanks to our partners – VWV, Narrow Quay HR, and Circle2Success – and to our exceptional speakers who brought the conversation to life.

To discover how Moon Executive Search builds boards and helps them build better futures, explore our Board Case Studies or Leaderships Consulting services.

Or get in touch at info@moonexecsearch.com