Meet the board: Karen Price
What was your first governance role?
Three months into my legal career I attended my first meeting at the Wellington Women Lawyers’ Association. It was looking for a younger representative to join the board and, at 22, I was the youngest in the room. It was excellent learning about governance among a fostering bunch of senior women, and we had a lot of fun, too.
What is the best advice you received as a young director?
Give yourself the best advantage by taking the time to get to know your company or entity thoroughly. This means early meetings with shareholders, the leadership team and other key stakeholders, and being an active listener. Then read widely to understand the relevant market drivers, competitors and opportunities. This becomes a solid platform to leverage your governance skills.
What has given you the greatest satisfaction in your boardroom career?
I’m often invited onto boards as their first independent director and chair. A key part is to help educate executive directors in good governance practices. That’s everything from practically explaining the differences between governance and management to implementing an annual work plan to create an achievable boardroom rhythm. I am most satisfied seeing these executive directors grow in confidence and experience their ‘lightbulb moment’ when they realise the significance of governance to a strategic decision.
What would be the title of your biography, and why?
“I Should Have Been Born A Seagull”. I love to fly. I am exhilarated being at height. I started flying small aircraft when I was 15 after persuading my school’s principal that ‘liberal studies’ on Wednesdays should be spent at the Ardmore aerodrome. In my dreams I fly exceptionally well – like a seagull. Recognising I’m grounded, I just get on with it and enjoy as many new experiences as possible along the way.
Who would you like to invite to dinner, and why?
Eleanor of Aquitaine – an educated, opinionated woman when women were not – for stimulating conversation. Amelia Earhart, to learn how she lived after landing her plane near Howland Island.
Lord Denning, who would make us laugh, and because I admire his judicial mind. And my mum, who comes to dinner several nights a week after not living in the same city for 40 years. Covid-19 has reunited us and I really enjoy her company.
What keeps you awake at night?
Andrew’s snoring.
Also see Karen Price's governance roles.