#213 Getting Runs on the Board: Kathy Grigg on Building Board-Ready Judgment

Welcome to the third interview in our six-part Board Director Series, where we explore the pathways and wisdom of some of our most respected leaders. Kathy Grigg brings a refreshingly practical perspective to board leadership—one grounded in the belief that operational experience is the foundation of sound governance judgment. From managing wool trading operations across multiple countries to serving as CFO of international companies, Kathy's journey to boards spanning GrainCorp, Agricultural Innovation Australia, and a distinguished 12-year tenure at Deakin University demonstrates how deep operational experience translates into board excellence. Kathy shares her philosophy of "getting runs on the board" through operational roles first, why she believes judgment can only come from experience, and her non-negotiable rule about never being financially dependent on any board role. She opens up about developing "antenna" for feedback that's never explicitly given, the importance of being able to walk away from any position, and how confidence grows through calculated risks in your "uncomfortable zone." This is a conversation about building board careers on substantial operational foundations, the value of understanding what you don't know, and how deep experience in challenging roles creates the judgment essential for effective governance. -----------------------   Inside My CEO Calendar: How I Led A Team of 5k+ Without Getting Pulled Back Into the Weeds A behind-the-scenes private podcast for senior female leaders and CEOs who don’t need fluff—just sharper thinking, smarter moves, and more time for what matters. You don’t have time for another 60-minute webinar. But you do have 15 minutes while you’re driving into the office or grabbing your mid-day coffee. Listen here: https://www.bravefeminineleadership.com/BFL-Private-Podcast   ----------------------- Craving inspiration? I send an email each Sunday about leadership reflection, top tips to build an intentional & sustainable life and other things that have captured my attention and are too good not to share! Sign up here: https://www.bravefeminineleadership.com/leadershipinspiration   Loving the podcast? Leave us a short review. It takes less than 60 seconds & will inspire like-minded leaders to join the conversation!   Access Your Free Clarity Tool Between the endless to-do lists, competing priorities, and decisions piling up, it’s easy to lose sight of what matters most. But here’s the truth: you can’t give more if you’re running on empty. That’s why we created Balance Your Brave—a free 15-minute diagnostic tool to help you regain control and clarity. In just 15 minutes, you will: ✅ Pinpoint energy drains holding you back. ✅ Identify where to focus for the biggest impact. ✅ Walk away feeling calmer and more confident in your next steps. Think of it as your personal roadmap to balance and alignment. ⬇️ Click here to access your free Balance Your Brave diagnostic tool. https://www.bravefeminineleadership.com/Balance-Your-Brave   Are we friends? Connect with Us. YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@bravefeminineleadership Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bravefeminineleadership Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/brave-feminine-leadership