What Boards Look for in a Technology-Savvy NED

Introduction: The Boardroom Technology Gap

Corporate boards have long been dominated by finance, legal and general management expertise. This was sufficient when the main boardroom challenges revolved around governance, capital allocation and compliance. In 2025, the equation is very different.

Technology has moved from a back-office enabler to a direct driver of enterprise value and risk. Artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, post-quantum encryption, cloud infrastructure, data centre resilience and regulatory exposure all sit on the board agenda. Yet many boards still lack members with the literacy to meaningfully interrogate these issues.

Why Boards Need Technology Fluency at the Top

Technology risk and opportunity are now board-level issues.

• Cybersecurity breaches can destroy corporate value overnight, and regulators hold boards accountable.

• AI adoption can reshape competitive advantage but must be governed ethically.

• Geopolitical developments such as sanctions and data sovereignty laws affect strategy.

• Investors demand credible oversight of technology investment and transformation programmes.

Core Qualities of a Technology-Savvy NED

Boards searching for a technology-savvy NED in 2025 want directors who combine sector fluency with governance strength. Look for:

1. Strategic technology insight.

2. Cybersecurity oversight competence.

3. Data and AI literacy.

4. Connectivity and infrastructure understanding.

5. Commercial acumen to link tech issues to value creation.

6. Investor and market credibility.

The Spectrum of Technology NED Profiles

Boards generally look for one of three types:

• Technology-Rooted Strategists – Former CEOs or executives from telecoms or digital infrastructure.

• Risk and Security Specialists – Cyber or national security experts who strengthen risk committees.

• Transformation Practitioners – Leaders with experience driving large-scale digital change.

What Boards Expect in Practice

Technology NEDs are expected to:

• Ask the right questions on strategy and risk.

• Strengthen committee oversight (especially risk and audit).

• Provide early warning on disruption.

• Mentor other board members to raise overall digital literacy.

Questions Boards Should Ask Candidates

• How do you assess the relevance of new technologies?

• What role should the board play in AI governance?

• How would you challenge management on cybersecurity?

• What are the biggest technology risks for our sector?

Red Flags

Beware of:

• Overly technical candidates unable to translate complexity.

• Operational managers without governance experience.

• Trend-followers who talk in buzzwords without substance.

Board Conclusion

Boards in 2026 must have technology-savvy voices at the table. The strongest NEDs translate technology issues into governance and strategy, strengthening resilience and investor confidence.

Bridge Connect works with boards seeking NEDs who bring genuine technology, telecoms and infrastructure expertise. If your board needs more than generic oversight — and requires strategic technology fluency — contact Bridge Connect for a confidential discussion.