Listed company directors to gain new skills

Listed company directors to gain new skills

Directors new to a listed company board will soon be able to learn the ins and outs of the listing process from some of New Zealand’s highest profile directors, thanks to a new initiative from the Institute of Directors and DLA Piper.

The two organisations have teamed up to develop Going Public, Staying Public - a unique webinar and workshop combination that introduces directors to the regulatory environment.

“A public offering is a transformational event for an organisation. There are both new and continuing obligations for public companies that may require new skills, additional resources and changes to the business,” says Institute of Directors acting CEO Simon Arcus.

“Directors who are new to listed companies, who would like to progress to sitting on a listed board, or whose companies are preparing to list must understand the environment they’re entering and their obligations. Listing a company means a change of perspective and accountability and directors need to be prepared for the gear change.

“Going Public, Staying Public is an opportunity to learn from the best in the business. We’re fortunate to have a number of New Zealand’s highest-profile directors sharing practical learnings and advice.”

The course introduces listed company rules, explains the differences between operating as a private company and as a public (listed) company, and helps directors assess an organisation’s readiness to go public. Going Public, Staying Public follows a record year for listings on the NZX’s main board and has won support from both NZX and the Financial Markets Authority.

"NZX’s regulatory responsibilities are fundamental to the operation of well-functioning and vibrant capital markets, and to drive investor confidence. It’s important that directors considering a listing have a robust understanding of our market rules, particularly where they relate to NZX’s monitoring and enforcement of compliance with those rules,” says NZX Head of Market Supervision Joost van Amelsfort.

Facilitated by DLA Piper partner Sue Brown, the course utilises board simulations and draws on the expertise of experienced directors Joan Withers, Mark Verbiest, Joanna Perry and Alan Isaacs.

“Once a company is publicly listed, life will never be the same again,” says Brown. “But this is not about scaring people. With knowledge comes confidence and power. The idea is to empower directors and encourage them to take opportunities.”

But those wishing to learn had better get in quick - there are just two courses on offer, with places on each limited to 25. The first course will be held in Wellington on 25 June, with the second to be held in Auckland on 12 November.

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