A non–executive director (NED) is a member of a company’s board of directors who is not part of the executive team. A non–executive director typically does not engage in the day-to-day management of the organization but is involved in policy-making and planning exercises and typical brings a wealth of specific experience to a company without the associated full time salary.

Recruiting a NED can help a small business gain experience, knowledge, contacts and ideas, as well as provide constructive criticism – all of which will be of value to a company during both good times and bad.