Governance by Design

Governance by Design is a distinguished firm that excels in offering bespoke governance solutions for boards and management teams. The firm integrates legal expertise with governance consultancy to aid organisations in achieving their goals and enhancing overall performance. With a focus on tailored leadership solutions, Governance by Design specialises in board and executive alignment, governance review and design, and strategic planning. The firm also provides facilitation, board culture, and executive training services. Governance by Design prides itself on its personalised approach, engaging closely with teams to craft governance frameworks that align with each organisation's distinctive objectives, membership or shareholder base, and competitive environment. Their comprehensive suite of services includes board and executive team development, strategic planning, constitutional and governance review, and board performance evaluation, which encompasses assessments of emotional intelligence and culture. The firm also offers secretariat and company secretarial support, providing legal advice on critical aspects such as risk management, constitutional preparation, conflict of interest management, and structuring advice. Guidance extends to matters involving the Corporations Act and State Incorporated Associations Act, transitioning from incorporated associations to companies limited by guarantee, and drafting deeds of access and indemnity. Additional offerings include regulator engagement, governance workshops, scenario planning, and development of skills matrices. Under the leadership of founding director Sonya Beyers, the firm combines deep legal knowledge with robust governance and director training. Sonya, who holds an LLB (Hons), LLMEnt-G, IDP-C (INSEAD), FAICD, and FGIA, is a seasoned governance lawyer and adviser. Governance by Design collaborates with a broad spectrum of organisations, including government-owned corporations, statutory bodies, professional and public companies, charities, private entities, and trusts. The firm is committed to values such as practical, solutions-oriented support, contemporary governance practices, and the enhancement of board performance, culture, and decision-making.