Trevor Sworn
Good governance isn’t just a buzzword—it’s the backbone of thriving organisations worldwide. As Cambodia continues its rapid economic growth, the role of well-trained, ethical directors becomes more critical.
Cam-IoD functions within IBC and Philip and acclime are platinum founding sponsors who were instrumental in launching the movement, empowering leaders through its Certified Directors (CertDir) Course. This programme equips participants with the tools they need to drive their organisations forward, ensuring they are not only competitive but also responsible and sustainable in the long term.
In this article, we explore the importance of good governance both globally and in Cambodia, and how the Certified Directors Course is transforming leaders into boardroom champions.
Understanding Good Governance: A Global and Cambodian Perspective
What is Governance and a Board? What is Good Governance?
Governance refers to the systems and processes through which organisations are directed, controlled, and held accountable. At the centre of this system is the board of directors, tasked with ensuring that decisions align with the organisation’s long-term goals and ethical standards. But what makes governance good?
Good governance is about more than just compliance. It’s about transparency, accountability, and integrity. When boards adhere to these principles, they create trust, mitigate risk, and build a foundation for sustainable success.
The Global Importance of Good Governance
Around the world, organisations with strong governance structures are better positioned to weather economic storms, attract investment, and achieve long-term success. From global corporations to local non-profits, good governance is what separates thriving organisations from those that falter.
Take the example of Boeing, one of the largest aerospace manufacturers in the world. In recent years, Boeing faced significant challenges following the two crashes of its 737 Max planes, which raised questions about the company’s governance practices. The absence of strong governance structures and board-level oversight over crucial safety concerns had devastating consequences—not only in terms of loss of life but also in financial damage and reputational harm.
Had Boeing adhered to stricter governance practices and prioritised transparency and safety over short-term profit goals, the outcome might have been very different. This example underscores how governance failures at the highest level can lead to catastrophic outcomes, both for an organisation’s reputation and its financial stability.
The lesson here is clear: good governance isn’t optional; it’s fundamental to sustaining trust, maintaining operational excellence, and protecting the long-term viability of an organisation.
The Specific Need for Good Governance in Cambodia
Closer to home, Cambodia’s rapidly expanding business landscape demands leaders who understand the nuances of good governance. In a country attracting growing foreign investment, having a well-trained board is essential for fostering trust and ensuring compliance with global standards. Cambodia’s corporate leaders must step up to meet these new challenges, and the Cambodian Institute of Directors (Cam-IoD) is leading the charge with its Certified Directors Course.
The Cambodian Institute of Directors (Cam-IoD)
The Cambodian Institute of Directors (Cam-IoD) is more than just an organisation—it’s a catalyst for change in Cambodia’s corporate landscape. Established to promote professionalism, accountability, and ethical business practices, Cam-IoD is committed to empowering leaders and strengthening governance frameworks across industries.
Key Initiatives and Contributions to Professional Development
Among Cam-IoD’s many initiatives, the Certified Directors Course stands out as a key driver of professional development. It provides directors with the knowledge and skills they need to lead with confidence and integrity, ensuring their organisations meet the highest standards of governance.
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The Certified Directors Course
The Certified Directors Course is Cambodia’s leading programme for board directors, designed to prepare individuals for the critical responsibilities that come with serving on corporate boards. The course not only elevates participants’ governance experience but also ensures they are fully equipped to make informed, ethical decisions that align with their organisation’s objectives.
Benefits of Completing the Programme
Participants who complete the Certified Directors (CertDir) Course gain more than just knowledge—they position themselves as ethical and strategic leaders capable of driving real change. By completing the course, graduates significantly elevate their understanding of corporate governance, enabling them to make better, more informed decisions. Alongside this, they earn a recognised qualification in directorship, which enhances their professional credibility and opens doors to new opportunities.
But the benefits don’t stop there. The CertDir course also provides invaluable networking opportunities, allowing participants to build lasting relationships with other business leaders and governance professionals. These connections can prove crucial in navigating the complex challenges of leadership, offering support and collaboration long after the course ends.
Quality Standards of the Course
What sets the Certified Directors Course apart is its alignment with internationally recognised governance standards. This means that graduates are not only prepared to lead within Cambodia but are also equipped to contribute to organisations on a global scale. The CertDir qualification is a mark of excellence that ensures participants meet the highest benchmarks of governance.
Course Structure and Modules
The Certified Directors Course is divided into six core modules, each designed to develop critical leadership skills. The first module, Roles and Responsibilities of the Board, teaches participants the fundamental duties of directors, focusing on oversight, risk management, and strategic planning. From there, the Corporate Strategy for Directors module helps participants craft long-term strategies that drive organisational growth and sustainability.
The third module, Corporate Finance for Directors, equips participants with the financial knowledge necessary for sound decision-making. The Leadership for Directors module focuses on developing the soft skills directors need to inspire teams and foster collaboration. In the Corporate Risk for Directors module, participants learn to identify, assess, and manage risks effectively, ensuring their organisations are protected. Finally, the Compliance for Directors module underscores the importance of adhering to legal and ethical standards in governance.
Each module runs for four weeks, with the exception of the first module, which spans six weeks. This structure gives participants ample time to explore each topic in-depth and apply their learning in real-world scenarios.
Learning Model and Delivery
The Certified Directors Course offers a flexible learning model designed to accommodate the busy schedules of professionals. Participants engage in a combination of distance learning, self-paced research, and online resources. Weekly meetings, held either face-to-face or via Zoom, provide opportunities for discussion and further clarification on the week’s topics.
Additionally, participants collaborate on group projects and assignments, applying the concepts they’ve learned in practical settings. Throughout the course, experienced facilitators and guest lecturers provide invaluable insights, offering guidance and expertise to help participants succeed.
This hybrid approach ensures that participants can balance their professional commitments with their learning, while still gaining the full benefit of the course.
Who Should Attend?
The Certified Directors Course is designed for current and aspiring leaders who are ready to take on the challenges of governance. Whether you’re already a board member of a listed company, preparing to lead a company that’s seeking to be listed, or a senior executive looking to enhance your governance skills, this course is for you.
The programme is also ideal for senior managers preparing for board involvement and for non-profit leaders involved in governance. Whether you’re an experienced director or preparing for your first board service, the CertDir course offers practical insights and tools to ensure you are well-equipped to lead with confidence.
Conclusion
In Cambodia’s evolving corporate environment, the Certified Directors Course offered by the Cambodian Institute of Directors is not just an opportunity—it’s a necessity. With its focus on ethical leadership, strategic oversight, and practical governance knowledge, the CertDir course empowers participants to become the directors their organisations need. By completing this programme, participants not only gain a valuable qualification but also contribute to the growth of responsible and transparent governance practices in Cambodia.
Are you ready to take the next step in your leadership journey? Become a member of the Institute and take Certified Directors Course to become the director who shapes the future of corporate governance in Cambodia.
Participants are expected to allocate 10-12 hours per week during the module. The cost is only $2,000 and reduced if a participant is a member of the Cam-IoD Click here to enrol in the Certified Directors Course and becoming a member of the Cambodian Institute of Directors (Cam-IoD).
Trevor Sworn is the Chair of the Working Group for the Cam-IoD and designer of the CertDir course. He has over 25 years of leadership experience in Cambodia, focusing on enhancing governance and developing strong leadership in the region.
