Non-Executive & Board

Navigating the Evolving Landscape of Leadership: Navigating Challenges and Opportunities
Non-Executive Directors and Board Members must evolve to lead with purpose in today's fast-paced and interconnected world.

Disruption is the new norm, and the role of Non-Executive Directors and Board Members has never been more critical. As the pace of technological, social, and economic change accelerates, boards must navigate uncharted territory to ensure their organisations remain relevant, resilient, and responsible.

Today's boards face a daunting array of challenges, from harnessing the power of digital transformation to fostering cultures of diversity, equity, and inclusion. They must balance the need for innovation and growth with the imperative for sustainability and social impact. And they must do so in an environment of increasing complexity, where geopolitical tensions, regulatory scrutiny, and stakeholder expectations are constantly evolving.

In this new era of governance, Non-Executive Directors and Board Members have to be more than just custodians of the status quo. They need to be agents of change, providing strategic guidance, challenging assumptions, and fostering a culture of innovation and accountability.

The pillars, including the latest demands

  • Increased focus on ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) considerations

  • Heightened scrutiny from stakeholders, regulators, and investors

  • Rapid technological advancements and digital transformation

  • Globalisation and cross-cultural collaboration

  • Growing importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion

Future Trends

  • Greater emphasis on sustainability and social responsibility

  • Integration of technology and digital expertise in the boardroom

  • More diverse and international boards

  • Increased focus on risk management and cybersecurity

  • Growing demand for Non-Executive Directors with expertise in innovation and disruption

Associated Roles

  • Chairs and Committee Members

  • Independent Directors

  • Board Advisors and Consultants

  • CEOs and Executive Leaders

Requirements for Success

  • Strategic thinking and vision

  • Strong communication and influencing skills

  • Ability to navigate complexity and ambiguity

  • Cultural competence and adaptability

  • Integrity, independence, and objectivity

  • Continuous learning and professional development

Thriving in the Role

  • Embrace lifelong learning and stay up-to-date with market trends and best practices

  • Foster a culture of openness, trust, and constructive debate

  • Leverage diverse perspectives and experiences to drive informed decision-making

  • Balance strategic guidance with operational oversight

  • Embody the highest standards of governance, ethics, and integrity

Our Non-Executive & Board Practice plays a crucial role in empowering organisations in this dynamic environment. We are dedicated to identifying, assessing, and developing exceptional leaders who can navigate the complexities of the boardroom and drive sustainable success. By combining our expertise in executive search and board consulting, we enable organisations to build high-performing boards and leadership teams that thrive in today's fast-paced and interconnected world.

  • Thomas W. Hofer
    South East Asia / Singapore / China / Malaysia / Thailand / Indonesia / Vietnam

    Thomas Hofer is the Co-Founder and Global Managing Partner of Selion Global, where he advises boards, CEOs, and senior executives on leadership strategy, succession, and executive search. With decades of experience in leadership consulting, board advisory, and executive talent strategy, he is a trusted advisor to top decision-makers across industries.

    While Thomas works with clients globally across industries, he has developed particular expertise in sectors where leadership decisions have far-reaching impact, including Maritime, Aviation, Logistics, and Technology. His approach is rooted in discretion, strategic insight, and a deep understanding of what defines effective leadership in an evolving world.

    At Selion Global, Thomas partners with business leaders to navigate critical leadership transitions, build high-performing teams, and develop leadership strategies that drive transformation and long-term success. His focus extends beyond individual appointments, advising key decision-makers on broader leadership and organisational strategies to ensure businesses stay ahead in an increasingly complex environment.

    As leadership challenges become increasingly complex, his work is dedicated to guiding organisations and individuals through critical transitions—ensuring they have the leadership required to drive sustainable success.

     

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  • Cecile Hofer
    South East Asia / Singapore / United Kingdom / Malaysia / Thailand / Indonesia / Vietnam

    Cecile Hofer is a seasoned leadership advisor and the Co-Founder of Selion Global. With decades of experience in executive search and board advisory, she has guided senior leaders and boards through the pivotal moments that shape organisations. Her expertise spans transformative C-suite appointments, succession planning, and strategic leadership consulting for forward-thinking businesses around the world.

    She advises CEOs, Chairmen, and senior executives navigating transitions - whether stepping into new roles, leading through complexity, or preparing for succession. Her work includes board assessments, succession strategies, and aligning top talent with long-term business priorities.

    Known for her strategic yet human approach, Cecile helps organisations identify, develop, and empower leadership that performs. She focuses on building high-performing executive teams and boards, and fostering cultures grounded in clarity, resilience, and excellence.

    Her clients include global corporations, private equity firms, family businesses, and high-growth ventures - organisations who value thoughtful counsel on leadership, not just execution.

    Cecile is also the founder of Selion Global Retreats - immersive, strength-based leadership experiences designed for senior executives and board members. These retreats offer space to recalibrate, gain clarity, and return with renewed strategic focus.

    Beyond her advisory work, Cecile is a passionate multisport enthusiast - most often found running, golfing, or staying active in ways that keep her focused and energised. She brings the same discipline to leadership as she does on the course or the trail - clarity, precision, and momentum.

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  • Jutta Mejlby
    Denmark

    Jutta Mejlby is the Managing Partner and Country Manager at Selion Global Denmark, bringing almost 20 years of experience, including ten years of international experience in Asia and the US. She is renowned for her deep understanding of the recruitment landscape and strategic methodology for securing top candidates. Jutta's results-oriented approach and skill in handling significant and complex hires have solidified her reputation in the search field. 

    Jutta is results-oriented and committed to excellence, enhancing client and candidate management across various industries. She is known for her passion, professionalism, and dedication to delivering high quality at every step of the process. With extensive insight and a deep cultural understanding, Jutta is an ideal advisor for organisations with ambitious goals.

    Throughout her career, Jutta has worked with several global executive search companies, starting in Asia, where she played a crucial role in sourcing senior-level positions for major international clients across diverse industries. She has a proven track record of managing high-impact recruitment projects, with experience spanning from local to global searches.

    Jutta's expertise also includes working in talent acquisition for larger international companies undergoing transformations.

    She has experience across various industries, including Technology & Digital, Financial Services, FMCG, Shipping & Logistics & Industrial, consistently delivering excellent results in complex searches.

    In addition to her professional achievements, Jutta is dedicated to volunteer work. Since 2022, she has served as a Regional Manager of Make-A-Wish Denmark, overseeing activities and the region's volunteers. Her contributions extend further, as she has also led and placed several board positions.

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  • Ravindra Bhide
    India

    Ravindra Bhide is the Managing Partner and Country Manager of Selion Global India. With decades of professional experience, Ravindra brings a wealth of expertise to his role, having worked with top-tier clients across the automotive, process industry, and chemicals sectors.

    Ravindra's career has been marked by senior leadership roles in prominent global organisations, including Korn Ferry International, where he served as a Senior Partner and developed his expertise in leadership search and talent management. His extensive experience working in Europe, including a decade in Switzerland with Ciba Specialty Chemicals (Headquarters), has given him a unique global perspective that he brings to every project.

    Throughout his career, Ravindra has demonstrated a proven track record in leading global search assignments and consulting projects for top-tier clients. His expertise spans executive search and leadership assessment, coaching and mentoring, talent management and development, and change management and ERP implementation support.

    As Managing Partner and Country Manager of Selion Global India, Ravindra spearheads the firm's presence in India, bringing his expertise and network to bear in supporting clients in the region and beyond. He is passionate about teaching, coaching, and development and maintains strong connections with his alma mater and various business schools.

    Ravindra's academic background includes a Bachelor's in Commerce/Accounting and a Master's in Management Studies (Finance) from SPJIMR, University of Mumbai. He is also a Fellow of India's Institute of Cost and Management Accountants. 

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  • Markus Gfeller
    Japan

    Markus Gfeller is Associate Partner and Country Manager of Selion Global Japan and the Managing Partner of G&S Japan K.K., a leading corporate consulting and retained executive search firm dedicated to supporting European businesses in Japan.

    As a seasoned executive with over 27 years of experience in Japan, Markus has built a distinguished career in international corporate finance, change management, and executive search. His expertise spans from his early days in banking with Credit Suisse to his tenure with BayernLB, where he honed his skills in international corporate finance with a strong focus on Asia.

    Markus's passion for Japan has led him to become fluent in Japanese, enabling him to navigate the complex business landscape with ease. He has taken on various leadership roles, including Managing Director and President positions at HARTING and KABA, where he drove change management initiatives. In 2009, he joined G&S Japan K.K. as Senior Partner and later became the Managing Partner, leading the firm's expansion and growth in Japan.

    Under his leadership, G&S Japan K.K. has become a trusted partner to multinational corporations, providing expert guidance in executive search, market entry, expansion, and change management. Markus's extensive network, cultural understanding, and business acumen make him a highly respected advisor to companies navigating the complex Japanese market.

    Professional Associations:

    • Member of German Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Japan (GCCIJ), Tokyo

    • Member of Swiss Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Japan (SCCIJ), Tokyo

    • Member of Italian Chamber of Commerce in Japan (ICCJ), Tokyo

    • Member of Canadian Chamber of Commerce in Japan (CCCJ), Tokyo

    • Member of the Foreign Correspondent’s Club of Japan (FCCJ), Tokyo

    • Member of the Tokyo American Club (TAC), Tokyo

    Others:

    • Former Vice President of the Swiss Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Japan

    • President of the Section of Education of the Swiss Club Tokyo

     

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  • Professor Peter Verhezen
    Singapore

    Peter Verhezen is a Specialist in Board and Leadership practice.

    As a globally recognised strategist, educator, and consultant, he brings expertise in emerging markets, corporate governance, and sustainability to his work.

    As a Professor at the University of Antwerp and Antwerp Management School, Peter shares his insights with future leaders, drawing from his extensive experience advising top management and boards across the Asia Pacific region. He leverages his expertise to advise clients on risk management, digital strategy, and sustainability, having previously served as a Consultant at IBM, and a Senior Advisor to the International Finance Corporation (IFC) - World Bank Group. He was the co-founder and CEO of an ICT company for over 15 years in Southeast Asia, Cimad Pacific, till sold to one of the big consulting companies.

    Peter has held various academic positions throughout his career, including Professor of Global Corporate Governance, Ethical Leadership, and Risk Management at Melbourne Business School, an award-winning Professor in Global Governance at the University of Melbourne, Research Fellow for Governance at Harvard Kennedy School, and Adjunct Professor of Strategy at Vlerick Business School and Hong Kong University, and UGM in Indonesia. He has coached top executives and boards in Singapore, Hong Kong, Shanghai, and Jakarta and has been a guest speaker at esteemed institutions worldwide.

    Peter's thought leadership is reflected in his publications, including several books on corporate governance, leadership, and responsible decision-making in the age of artificial intelligence. His unique blend of academic rigour, consulting expertise, and leadership experience makes him a sought-after advisor and thought leader in his field.

    Areas of Expertise

    ·         Non-Executive & Board Performance
    ·         Sustainability, ESG Measurements & Investments
    ·         Digitization & Artificial Intelligence

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