The Fiji Human Resources Institute (FHRI) emphasized the need to enhance leadership structures, decision-making processes, communication channels, and accountability mechanisms to strengthen governance in Pacific organizations. This statement was made as the three-day Pacific Board Governance Program commenced in Suva.
Pacific Board Governance Pte Limited has been established by seasoned directors and governance trainers, including former PricewaterhouseCoopers managing partner Jenny Seeto and former Westpac Fiji chief manager David Evans. They noted that training for directors and executives should not be viewed as a one-time event. Globally, ongoing professional development is essential for creating strong governance structures, a requirement increasingly recognized by regulatory bodies in Australia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom.
Ms. Seeto remarked that before the COVID-19 pandemic, various governance courses in Fiji significantly improved governance standards across a range of organizations, including statutory authorities and government entities. She acknowledged, however, that since the pandemic, the availability of governance training programs tailored to the Pacific has diminished, highlighting a need for action among many boards and organizations in Fiji.
Together with David Evans, who shares her commitment to enhancing governance in the Pacific, Seeto has developed the three-day Pacific Board Governance Program. Over the past year, the two experienced executives curated a series of workshops that align with contemporary global governance standards.
The first day of the program focused on board governance principles and the roles and responsibilities of directors as outlined in the Fiji Company Act. The second day delved into risk and strategy governance, an essential area for directors to understand their duty of care. The final day offered participants insights into financial statements, a critical responsibility for all directors and corporate officers.