As fintechs have grown and become increasingly important players in the financial ecosystem, the demand for a diverse, well-rounded set of board members has increased.

Our analysis of the appointments to Fortune 500 boards in the first six months of 2023 shows a renewed focus on diversity and an encouraging uptick in the share of seats going to first-time directors.

As Saudi Arabia gears up for a period of accelerated growth and opportunity fueled by Vision 2030, interviews with 10 directors on leading boards highlight how boards can seize this opportunity to embrace the next phase of their professionalization.

Our second look at incoming directors at listed companies in Saudi Arabia shows a preference for experienced board members with CEO backgrounds.