Ten typologies of directors

. Ten typologies of directors are assembled into 2 categories: functional and dysfunctional

Functional

- conductor (possess good interpersonal skills and have a keen interest in corporate governance; have superior leadership skills and act as the hub of board activity)

- change agents (catalysts for bringing about key changes in organisational structure and operations)

- censensus builders (conciliate and resolve conflict through interpersonal and communication skills)

- counsellors (have a higher level of respect and credibility; they are strongly persuasive and have the ability to work one-on-one as coaches, connectors, mentors and negotiators)

- challengers (ask tough questions; know when to speak, what to say and how to say it; their questions prompt managers to rethink key decisions)

Dysfunctional

- caretaker (runs meetings ineffectively; cannot manage interpersonal conflict and dissent; has a poor working relationship with other stakeholders)

- controllers (dominate board process through skill, tact, humour or anger; particularly dangerous when working with other dysfunctional types)

- conformist (don't perform but support status quo; avoid any serious discussion; can be well liked owing to past success or relationships)

- cheerleaders (enthusiastic amateurs who give unlimited praise to others but are unprepared; often ask inane questions)

- critics (continually criticise and complain in undiplomatic ways; appear manipulative, sneaky and lack constructive dissent)