In today’s evolving corporate world, effective leadership is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity. Board members and governance professionals must constantly develop their skills to meet the demands of modern business environments. That’s where Hawkamah’s director development program (DDP) plays a crucial role. Designed to strengthen leadership capacity and promote sound governance practices, the program provides comprehensive training and certification opportunities for current and aspiring directors across the MENA region. It also complements the wider portfolio of board of directors’ certification programs offered by Hawkamah, ensuring participants gain both theoretical understanding and practical insights that enhance board performance.
A Commitment to Better Governance
Founded in 2006, Hawkamah has established itself as the Middle East’s leading corporate governance institute. Its mission is to improve governance frameworks, guide organizations in adopting best practices, and nurture capable board members. The DDP is Hawkamah’s flagship initiative, purpose-built to empower professionals with the knowledge and confidence required to lead effectively.
The DDP reflects Hawkamah’s core belief that governance excellence begins with education and capacity building. By offering structured learning, interactive sessions, and exposure to real-world case studies, the institute ensures participants are equipped to fulfill their fiduciary and strategic responsibilities with integrity and foresight.
Structure of the DDP
The DDP is structured into four comprehensive parts, each focusing on a critical area of board effectiveness. Candidates begin their journey with an essential “Introduction to Corporate Governance” workshop, which lays the foundation for the rest of the program.
1. Introduction to Corporate Governance
Participants explore the building blocks of governance, from its key elements to its role in driving performance. The session also highlights the development of governance practices in the Gulf region, offering valuable regional context.
2. The Board
This section dives deep into the mechanics of how boards operate. It covers:
- Board structure and composition
- Appointment of directors
- Role and responsibilities of the chairman and vice chairman
- Duties and liabilities of directors
- Effective board engagement and dynamics
Through group discussions and regional case studies, participants learn how to foster collaboration and accountability at the board level.
3. Strategic Leadership
Board members play a central role in shaping corporate strategy. This module helps participants understand how to balance ambition with prudence by mastering topics such as:
- Strategic planning and risk alignment
- Understanding risk appetite and exposure
- Building a strong risk culture
- Establishing effective risk management functions
By the end of this section, participants are better prepared to steer their organizations toward sustainable growth while managing uncertainty effectively.
4. Financial Stewardship and Accountability
Financial oversight is one of a board’s most important responsibilities. This part of the DDP emphasizes:
- The board’s role in financial stewardship
- Corporate finance principles
- Internal control environments
- Duties of audit committees
Participants gain practical tools to ensure transparency, financial integrity, and sound decision-making within their organizations.
Certification and Recognition
Each module of the DDP grants an attendance certificate upon completion. Participants who complete all four parts and pass an online assessment with an average of 80% earn the prestigious Professional Directorship Certificate from Hawkamah. Certified directors are then recognized as qualified to serve on various boards across sectors and regions.
For those interested in upcoming sessions, Hawkamah has scheduled the Strategic Leadership workshop (Part 3) on 17–18 November 2025, followed by Financial Stewardship, Accountability & Planning (Part 4) on 19–20 November 2025.
Tailored Learning for Every Leader
Recognizing that every organization and director has unique needs, Hawkamah delivers its program in three flexible formats:
- Open enrollment sessions – ideal for networking and peer learning.
- Company-tailored programs – customized to address specific governance challenges.
- One-on-one training – private coaching that allows directors to discuss company-specific issues confidentially.
This versatility ensures that each participant, whether a first-time director or a seasoned board member, gains maximum value from the program.
Membership Benefits: A Network for Lifelong Learning
Participants who complete and pay for all four parts of the DDP receive one year of free Hawkamah membership. This membership opens the door to an active community of governance professionals and provides a wealth of ongoing learning and networking opportunities.
Individual Membership Benefits Include:
- Invitations to exclusive forums and corporate governance events
- Access to research, reports, and advisory services
- Opportunities to contribute to the Hawkamah Journal
- Reduced prices for seminars and workshops
- Potential involvement in regional task forces and policy discussions
Corporate Membership Advantages:
- Board briefings and effectiveness sessions
- Governance assessments and benchmarking visits
- Tailored workshops and training sessions
- Certified Board Secretary and Director programs
- Exclusive “Power Breakfasts” and executive networking opportunities
These benefits reflect Hawkamah’s commitment to continuous professional development and community-building among governance leaders.
In the End
The DDP stands out as a cornerstone of governance excellence in the MENA region. Through its structured learning modules, flexible delivery formats, and globally benchmarked content, it empowers directors to lead with vision, accountability, and strategic insight.
By joining the DDP, participants don’t just enhance their skills—they become part of a dynamic network dedicated to shaping better boards, stronger institutions, and a more prosperous future for the region. With Hawkamah’s expertise, governance truly goes beyond compliance—it becomes a driver of sustainable success.
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