The Fellow (F.BDI) category is a distinguished level of membership at GCC BDI, designed to recognise individuals who have demonstrated outstanding knowledge, experience, and professionalism in corporate governance and board leadership. This category honours those who have made significant contributions to their fields and have upheld the highest standards of ethical conduct and professional excellence.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

A person may become a Fellow following application for a transfer of status or by invitation of the Board.

1.     Application for Transfer of Status: An individual seeking to become a Fellow by application must meet the following:

• Membership Tenure and References

Applicants must satisfy one of the following criteria:

• Membership Tenure: Must have been a Member of GCC BDI for at least the last two consecutive years.

or

• References: Provide references from two current Members and one Fellow, demonstrating active involvement and contributions to the institute.

AND

Experience: Be currently serving as a board director, C-suite executive, senior manager, board secretary, governance professional, trustee, or professor with:

• Ten Years of Experience:
• Within a twelve-year period, in one role for a minimum of six consecutive years and a second role for a minimum of three consecutive years; or
• Within a twelve-year period, in one role for a minimum of six consecutive years, a second role for a minimum of two consecutive years, and a third role for a minimum of one year.

OR

• Certification:
• Be a Chartered Director or Chartered Secretary from GCC BDI or one of the GNDI​ member institutes

2.     Invitation by the Board:

A person may also be invited to become a Fellow by the Board. In such cases, the individual must generally possess, in the opinion of the Board or its delegate, the requisite knowledge, experience, good standing, and professionalism befitting a Fellow Member. When invited by the Board, the individual does not need to satisfy the criteria required for application-based transfer.

Exceptional Circumstances

If a person who previously held the status of Fellow ceases to be a member and later seeks to be readmitted as a Fellow, the relevant Membership Committee may, in its absolute discretion, readmit the person in unusual or exceptional circumstances, even if they do not meet the current requirements for Fellow status. This decision will consider the Membership Rules and Regulations.

Please note that the fees below are exclusive of VAT and any other taxes which may apply.

If you are unsure about your eligibility or which membership category is most suitable for you, please contact our membership team at membership@gccbdi.com.