Putting together a board portfolio that will sustain you for decades isn’t easy. It takes strategic foresight, deep business networks, a stellar reputation, and a well-managed career plan. But make no mistake—done right, it’s not just a rewarding path, it’s a lucrative and fulfilling one, especially for high-performing executives who want to stay engaged well into their later years.
I was watching a podcast recently featuring Mark Bouris, and his message really hit home. He said:
“Forget about retirement—learn to love work.”
His reasoning? Most of us don’t have the superannuation required to stop working at 65. Even if you did, chances are that money won’t see you through the decades ahead. Most super funds are modelled on life expectancy into the mid-eighties, not living past 100.
And frankly, I agree with him.
🔄 Rethinking Retirement
Personally, I’m not a fan of the concept of retirement. Too often, it disconnects people from their sense of purpose, their identity, and the wider business world. In many cultures, there is no retirement age. People continue contributing, mentoring, and leading in some form or another for as long as they can.
A board portfolio is an elegant solution—a professional bridge between the intensity of executive life and the flexibility of what we once called “retirement.”
At Tiger Boards, we work with directors well into their seventies and eighties, who are still making a significant contribution, earning an income, and feeling engaged and valued. That’s not just inspiring—it’s smart.
“The Australian boardroom is evolving. Experience still matters, but today’s boards want strategic thinkers who understand purpose, innovation, and risk—regardless of age.” — The Australian Financial Review
🎯 The Importance of Planning Early
I recently spoke with a couple of clients who told me their end goal was to build a board career—maybe with some advisory work and mentoring in later years. My advice was clear: Start early.
Build your board career in parallel to your executive one. Secure your first board seat in your 40s or 50s, while you’re still actively employed. That way, you build experience, reputation, and networks over time. Waiting until you’re 65 to begin your board career is like deciding to become an elite athlete at retirement age—it’s possible, but you’re already 20 years behind.
We’ve seen senior partners from major law and accounting firms struggle to build a board career from scratch post-retirement. It’s not that they aren’t capable—it’s that the competition is fierce, and experience counts.
“If you want to stay active and engaged in later life, a board career is one of the few pathways that offers intellectual stimulation, flexible workload, and respectable remuneration.” — The Sydney Morning Herald
💡 Build Your Career Portfolio Now
This isn’t just about making money—it’s about maintaining your professional relevance, staying connected to the business community, and continuing to grow.
The future of work will be portfolio-based—a mix of board roles, advisory work, consulting, and mentoring. That’s why we encourage executives to view this as an essential element of long-term career planning.
And here’s a personal story: My father retired after selling his business and initially loved the freedom. But within two years, he was climbing the walls with boredom. The Wednesday golf games didn’t cut it. He missed business—missed meaning. And once you exit the market, it’s incredibly hard to step back in.
That’s why I believe in transition, not exit. Use your experience. Give back. Stay sharp.
✅ Ready to Start?
At Tiger Boards, we are actively working on high-calibre board mandates across tech, cyber, digital, financial services, infrastructure, health, renewables, and more.
If you’re serious about your future, the first step is to register your interest:
🔗 Register Here – Tiger Boards Registry https://tigerboards.com.au/board-director-registry/
📅 Or book time with me: www.calendly.com/kyliehammond/tigerboards
Now is the time to build the board portfolio that will define your future.
