Hi Guru, I have total of 25+ years of experience out of which 7+ years in mechanical industry and 18 years as SAP consultant . Now a days I heard lot about independent director . Now I want to know about independent director . What are the job responsibilities of independent director? Can I become independent director of a company ? Is it right time to shift a career from SAP consulting to another one.

Ans: Hello Praveen, thank you for your question. An independent director is a non-executive director of a company who helps the company in improving corporate credibility and governance standards. The role of an independent director is to provide an impartial opinion as they are not part of the company’s existing management. The Companies Act, 2013 has defined the term “Independent Director” along with several new requirements relating to their appointment, duties, role, and responsibilities.

The provisions relating to the appointment of Independent directors are contained in Section 149 of the Companies Act, 2013 should be read along with Rule 4 and Rule 5 of the Companies (Appointment and Qualification of Directors) Rules, 2014 1. The Companies Act, 2013 mandates certain companies to have independent directors on their Board of Directors.

As for your question about becoming an independent director, it is possible for you to become one. However, the eligibility criteria for becoming an independent director are defined by the Companies Act, 2013 and the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI). The eligibility criteria include qualifications, experience, and other factors such as age, independence, and expertise.

In terms of roles and responsibilities, independent directors have several duties such as:

Undertaking appropriate induction and regularly updating and refreshing their skills, knowledge, and familiarity with the company.
Attempting to attend the company’s general meetings.
Attempting to attend Board of Director’s meetings and board committees meeting being a member.
Providing independent judgment to the board on matters such as finances, strategy, performance, risk management, and key appointments.
Playing an active role in succession-planning.
Protecting the interests of all stakeholders.
I hope this helps. If you have any more questions, feel free to ask!

Ans: Dear Ms CEO!! You are already a power house of talent and experience, congratulations. Look back at your life and list out all your WINS. This activity has two benefits....first benefit you'll know your strengths and the second you'll know the activities that brought the best in you and you enjoyed doing them!! Now is the time to consolidate on your strengths and work towards finding joy and meaning in your life , if that is what you desire.
There is no single educational path for becoming an independent consultant or apply for senior positions abroad but here are some things to consider:
1. how good are your leadership skills
2. communication skills
3. updating yourself to look and feel like a leader
4. look into your networking skills and building rapport skills
5. how good are you at leading cross cultural teams

As you go higher up in your career the soft skills and Image projection take center stage backed with solid experience(which is your strength)!!

More power to you..

All the very best!!