Board roles in the UK and Ireland are changing. Across both executive and non-executive roles, regulatory demands are rising, board workloads are growing, and investor scrutiny is more intense than ever.

Has non-executive director (NED) pay kept pace?

Korn Ferry’s latest report on NED time commitment and pay provides a data-led view of how board responsibilities and fees are evolving.

Based on responses from more than 200 NEDs representing more than 500 boards in the UK and Ireland, the report explores rising time demands, committee workloads, fee structures, and the growing debate around shares and travel allowances. 

Key Findings From the Report:

  • 80% say the time commitment of the NED role has increased over the past five years
  • 95% believe fees do not reflect the time and accountability required
  • Over 90% receive no additional fees for travel time
  • 61% support paying a portion of fees in shares 

The Report Examines:

  • Changes in committee workloads
  • Trends in fee flexibility and shareholding requirements
  • Travel time allowances
  • The international competitiveness of UK NED pay

Download the full report to understand what these shifts mean for your board—and how you may need to respond. 

cover of report

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