Paul Smith - The Board Futurist - is a globally recognized innovator and thought leader in corporate governance. His mission is clear: to future-proof boards and help directors become effective stewards for an uncertain and complex world.
A sought-after international speaker, Paul shares insights on impactful governance, inclusive decision-making, and the transformative potential of technology, particularly artificial intelligence, in the boardroom. His philosophy - that the board of the future will be "simultaneously more human and less human” - drives his work in blending behavioral science with technology to enhance decision-making.
Paul is the award-winning author of Right Seat Right Table, a cornerstone text for new board members. His second governance book, The Artificially Intelligent Boardroom (published in 2025), is a wake-up call for boards and executives alike about the power of the AI-assisted board.
With over 15 years of board experience, Paul has served as chair and non-executive director for companies across Australia, the UK, and Europe. His work extends to mentoring chairs, founders, and CEOs, and advising boards on performance, recruitment, technology, and culture.
Paul is also a Senior Teaching Fellow at one of the world’s top private universities, Bond University, a facilitator for The Governance Professionals of Canada, and holds an Honours Degree in Economics from Durham University in the UK. He has completed courses in Neuroscience and facilitates Advanced Director courses around the world.
