Board leaders recognize that digital transformation is the key to maintaining competitive advantage in today’s market. Emerging technologies are evolving rapidly, and affecting all aspects of businesses, while many companies struggle to keep pace with the changes. Simultaneously, we’re seeing a divisive split in how companies approach the workforce, with some reaffirming a commitment to diversity, while others are removing diversity considerations in their hiring and succession planning. These two aspects of today’s business landscape may appear separate, but they are inextricably linked—especially for board leaders. [...]

Over her 35-year career, Sanchez has a track record of successfully scaling large businesses, navigating digital transformations, and building thriving partner ecosystems. Specializing in marketing, strategy, and business development, her experience spans global enterprises, digital startups, nonprofits, and higher education. Today, she is the Founder and CEO of Digital Impact, an innovation, entrepreneurship, and leadership consultancy. When asked about her journey to board service, she’s clear and intentional: “I always knew I’d be on corporate boards. From the outset, I had it as an ambition that I’d join a public board, so I took advantage of opportunities in corporate America to learn and grow, lead committees, and get out of my comfort zone.” [...]

As active members of Harvard Business School’s Board Diversity Network, Lara Druyan (MBA 1994) and Ann Lucena (MBA 2012) want more alumni, especially women and other leaders from underrepresented groups, to pursue board service. For both, board service is a fulfilling extension of their leadership journeys, and they are passionate about encouraging others to apply their experience and expertise to these important roles. [...]

Joining a corporate board can mean making a lasting impact on companies of the future. Getting your first board seat, however, can be a challenge. The Race, Gender & Equity Initiative’s Board Diversity Network (BDN) hosted three alumni events this fall to demystify the process, particularly for women and people of color who continue to be underrepresented on corporate boards. The three events featured advice from seasoned HBS alumni on how to land a corporate board seat—including ideal skills for aspiring directors, the importance of relationships in seeking leadership opportunities, and, lastly, navigating current and future board challenges. Read on for recaps of each event. [...]

However your path to the boardroom looks, landing a seat usually takes time. Relationships, in particular, are key. The Board Diversity Network (BDN), a program of the HBS Race, Gender & Equity and Initiative, recently hosted “The Future of the Board Room” with BDN steering committee members Nisha Kumar (MBA 1995) and Kris Pederson (MBA 1991), who shared insights and recommendations for BDN members navigating their board journey. Read on for advice from Kumar, Pederson, and other alumni experts on what to consider in order to land your first board seat. [...]