Paul Smith Wins 2019 Australian Business Book Award in the Leadership Category for Right Seat Right Table

“The boardrooms of the 21st century can no longer look or act like the boardrooms of the 20th century. It’s time for a boardroom (r)evolution!

Our role is to empower and support the ‘Future Directors’,’those shaping the boardrooms of the future, and the future from the boardroom.

– Paul Smith, Founder of Future Directors –

PLEASE NOTE: We are currently going through a refresh of our brand and website. This current website is therefore not the best reflection of the awesomeness of our work.

? We help next-generation Aspiring Directors seeking their first (or next) board roles.? We support Developing Directors seeking to increase their influence and impact, so they can truly say they are making a difference.

? The ultimate destination for our community is to become Future Directors, those shaping the boardroom of the future, and the future from the boardroom.

? We also work with those purpose-driven boards wishing to evolve and future-proof themselves for the 21st century.

HOW DO WE DO THIS?

Boardrooms are becoming more diverse, but being a director is not for everyone. So, first we help answer the question, “is this for me?”.We then help move people from CAN I? to I AM? transforming you from an Aspiring Director to a Developing Director – an empowered, confident and contributing member of the boardroom.

Ultimately, our goal is to support the growth of directors and boards so they become what we call FUTURE DIRECTORS and FUTURE BOARDS – with the skills, perspectives, tools and ideas to effectively navigate change, make more informed decisions and increase their positive impact.

What are others saying about Right Seat, Right Table?

I'm tremendously grateful to everyone who has provided me with early reviews, feedback and testimonials. They are all featured in the book and here's a sample below:

Jane Goodall Ph.D., DBE and UN Messenger of Peace

"Since 1991, I have worked with young people in over 70 countries. Once they understand the problems, once we listen to their voices, once we empower them to act, their energy and determination are amazing. They are our greatest hope for the future. We must encourage them to believe in themselves and grow into leaders in their chosen way of life. This includes a position in the boardroom. My advice to anyone reading Paul’s much-needed book is never giving up; changing the world takes persistence, passion and purpose, as well as a belief in yourself."

"Finally, a book that answers not only the 'how-to' of getting a board seat but asks the reader to truly understand why they would bother taking on the responsibility that follows and what kind of legacy they want to leave. The world is craving leadership at every level. If you want to be tomorrow's leader, please read Right Seat, Right Table."

Cassandra Kelly, Tech Entrepreneur, Board Director, Adviser & Speaker (+ Top 10 Chair in Australia & US Director to Watch)

"Paul’s advice about making it into the boardroom—and most importantly, having influence and impact when you get there—is practical and priceless. The C.O.N.N.E.C.T. methodology that provides the framework for his book has worked for me, and I have seen it work for others. Follow it and not only will it help you find the ideal board role; you will also have a deeper understanding of what you have to offer and how you can make a difference." Peter O’Sullivan, National Head of People & Culture, BDO Australia, Non-Executive Director, Queensland Doctors' Health Programme

"Put simply; Paul is the reason I have a boardroom career. He helped me understand my unique value and gave me the courage to seek (and achieve) my first non-executive board role at the age of 29. Without Future Directors, I would have had no idea where to start. As a media professional, I wasn’t sure I “fit the mould” or had anything to offer. But Paul helped me see the opposite was true and now I’m deputy chair of a major not-for-profit. With this book, a board career might not be as far out of reach as you think."

Hannah Stenning, Media Professional and Non-Executive Director

Hannah is typical of so many people who see themselves as ‘outsiders.’ People who perhaps think they do not belong. Fortunately, Hannah overcame her doubts and, like so many others, is now influencing the future from the boardroom.

Our Charity Partners

Many books raise money for charity, but because I am self-publishing and funding that part myself, we can maximize how much is raised for our partners around the world. We are continuing to develop these partners, but for now, we have identified these groups.

The Hunger Project is a global NGO empowering people to end their hunger. Their bold mission to end hunger by 2030 and people (especially women) are central to their strategies across Africa, Asia and Central America.

Future Leaders are building a movement of young people who can and will change the world. In particular, they back young people in rural and provincial New Zealand to build their entrepreneurship and leadership capability, and make a difference in their backyard.

Roots & Shoots is a youth service program for young people of all ages. Across almost 100 countries, their mission is to foster respect and compassion for all living things, to promote understanding of all cultures and beliefs, and to inspire each individual to take action to make the world a better place for people, other animals, and the share environment.