Seen, Heard And Trusted: June's CGPro Network Breakfast Event

The session brought together a range of perspectives, with open discussion and shared insight on the human and relational aspects of the governance role.

Key reflections from the session included:

Foundations of effective practice

Anne-Marie Clarke highlighted three core pillars - communication and interpersonal skills, integrity and discretion, and diplomacy and influencing - brought to life through practical examples. A useful prompt to reflect on where the greatest opportunity for growth lies.

Building trust

Nicola Hurdley explored trust through the behavioural change stairway, reinforcing that it is built through commitment, consistency and honesty. Drawing on an accomplished career in policing and communications coaching, she highlighted the transferable skills that translate strongly into the governance environment. Preparation and thoughtful positioning emerged as critical themes, with personal brand shaped in every interaction.

A stakeholder perspective

Tara Gonzalez offered a compelling view of the governance professional role as one of the most relational within an organisation. Tara highlighted cognitive authority, discretion, clarity of thought and precision as core skills, reinforcing the impact these bring to effective governance. A strong and motivating reminder of the pivotal role governance professionals play across the wider business.

Seen, heard and trusted in practice

Mohor Roy, Caroline Hillsdon and Rachel Carr brought the theme to life through a practical discussion, each offering distinct perspectives. The conversation explored building confidence, knowing when to step forward and when to step back, and building trust with colleagues and stakeholders. A consistent message: preparation, honesty, integrity, and self-awareness matter.

Professional services perspective

Emma Hunt and Ashley Gerrard shared their experience of building influence in a professional services environment, highlighting that being seen is as much about presence as it is about participation, being heard is often shaped in the moments around formal discussions, and being trusted comes from consistency, integrity and the confidence to challenge constructively.

Anne-Marie rounded up the morning’s discussion by sharing some practical top tips, including the value of getting involved in cross functional projects and seeking out mentoring opportunities. The session closed with a simple but powerful reminder: every interaction contributes to how you are perceived - and over time, that’s what makes you seen, heard and trusted.

A great example of the CGPro Network in action - creating space for open dialogue, shared experience and practical insight. Attendees left with new connections, fresh perspectives, and a strong sense of purpose in the evolving governance role.

With thanks to Caroline Hillsdon and Luke Kelly for providing the insights from this event.