The information below is based on the prior program session and does not reflect potential changes to faculty and course content for future program offerings. For a list of upcoming programs, visit our program finder.
Traditionally, most board appointments are made through informal networks that are especially hard for women to break into. With a focus on the critical issues facing boards today, you will learn how to approach board selection strategically and raise your profile to find your best match.
Women on Boards unpacks the board selection process and provides you with the knowledge you need to instantly drive impact as a new member. You'll also develop the skills and network you need to attain your ideal board appointment.
Key Program Features
Key Topics
Examine best practices to learn how high-functioning boards drive value
Explore the legal and regulatory environments affecting boards
Recognize the gender lens—how women are perceived in the boardroom
Understand the politics and pitfalls of corporate networks
Match your skills and talents to the board's specific needs
Raise your profile among directors, founders, and funders
Disrupt the established lines of succession and become the winning candidate
Program Format
5
days on the HBS campus
12–15
hours of pre-program work
Case materials and a detailed schedule will be made available approximately two weeks prior to program start.
Who Should Attend
Senior businesswomen who hold positions in large established companies ranging from division head to CEO—or who are retired from such positions
Women in senior executive roles who currently sit on nonprofit or private boards who wish to serve on public corporate boards in any industry
While the program is designed for executives who identify as women or nonbinary, the program is open to all who otherwise fulfill the admissions criteria. Please view our policy on nondiscrimination for more information
Global Perspective
3%
Africa
5%
Asia Pacific
15%
Europe
3%
Latin America
4%
Middle East
70%
North America
Top Industries Represented
18%
Financial
12%
High Technology
12%
Professional Services
10%
Chem/Pharma/Bio
10%
Consumer Products
5%
Nonprofit Services
4%
Education
4%
Health Care
4%
Raw Materials / Energy
3%
Manufacturing
Experience
Years Worked
4%
Less than 10 years
2%
10-14 years
7%
15-19 years
23%
20-24 years
25%
25-29 years
25%
30-34 years
12%
35-39 years
2%
40 or more
Companies That Have Participated
Apple
Credit Suisse
DuPont Company
General Motors
The Hershey Company
Marriott
NBCUniversal
Office Depot
Save the Children
Thomson Reuters Corporation
Unilever
Zurich Insurance Group
Teaching Team
All our executive education programs are developed and taught by a team of widely recognized HBS faculty. Many are skilled educators, groundbreaking researchers, and award-winning authors. Through their board memberships, consulting, and field-based research, they address the complex challenges facing business leaders across the globe.
This in-person program takes place on our storied campus where you'll live and learn at the heart of Boston's vibrant business, academic, and technology hubs.
At HBS, every detail is carefully calibrated to drive your success. Living arrangements and classrooms that spark connection. Unrivaled academic resources. And rejuvenating fitness, dining, and cultural amenities.
Admissions
We admit applicants on a rolling, space-available basis, so you are encouraged to submit your application as soon as possible.
The selective admissions process is based on professional achievement, organizational responsibility, and the admissions criteria for each program as described in Who Should Attend. There are no formal educational requirements for HBS Executive Education programs.
Program content, dates, schedule, fees, technology platforms, and faculty are subject to change. In accordance with Harvard University policy, Harvard Business School does not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, color, sex or sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, age, national or ethnic origin, political beliefs, veteran status, or disability in admission to, access to, treatment in, or employment in its programs and activities.