AICD MD and CEO Mark Rigotti GAICD elected Chair of GNDI

Mark Rigotti has been elected as new chair of the Global Network of Director Institutes (GNDI).

“I was pleased to have been elected Chair of this important group commencing 1 January 2026, for a term of two years,” said Mark.

The global network brings together 26 leading director institutes from across Africa, Asia-Pacific, the Americas, Europe and the Middle East, representing over 180,000 directors worldwide.

It aims to become the recognised global leader on corporate governance and provide guidance to elevate board effectiveness.

“I’m excited about what this appointment means for our AICD members, who will continue to benefit from AICD’s involvement in this international network,” said Mark, who was elected during a recent trip to Singapore for the annual meeting of the GNDI.

The GNDI said Mark brings to the role “an outstanding record of leadership and governance” and the organisation is looking forward to an exciting new era under his guidance. “His deep experience in corporate governance, diversity and inclusion and global board leadership gives GNDI an ideal steward as we move into our next chapter.”

The benefits of GNDI membership include the Global Passport which allows members to access offerings from affiliated director institutes at discounted rates. The program also provides global directors an opportunity to share experiences, learn from international colleagues and to keep current on business and governance trends impacting boardrooms across the world.

“I am also hopeful the GNDI can offer free participation to AICD members in the annual GNDI 24-hour global virtual conference,” said Mark.

Global networking with fellow directors internationally through the GNDI offers board members the chance to broaden their horizons and learn about governance in other geographical jurisdictions, he added.

“The GNDI publishes regular articles, newsletters and thought leadership papers and also carries out a biennial Global Director Survey which provides insights into views on business confidence, social, economic and environmental issues and risks, technology and data governance, core governance practices and how boards can improve effectiveness and director capability,” said Mark.

The survey insights are conducted over three timeframes to 2030 and beyond and are a valuable source of director opinion for board members all around the world, he added.

Mark became Managing Director & CEO of the Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD) in 2022 and served as Global CEO of the international law-firm Herbert Smith Freehills from 2014 to 2020.