Paul Smith,
Founder of Future Directors

Paul Smith, the Board Futurist, is a globally recognised innovator and thought leader in corporate governance. As the founder of Future Directors, he has revolutionised how boards and directors learn, connect, and adapt through a holistic platform combining technology, education, and community. 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
behavioural 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, and is working on his second governance book, The Artificially Intelligent Boardroom. As the host of the popular Future Directors Podcast, he continues to inspire a global audience of directors and governance professionals.

With over 15 years of board experience, Paul has served as chair and non-executive director for organisations across Australia, the UK, and Europe. His work extends to mentoring chairs, founders, and CEOs, and advising boards on performance, processes, and culture. Through partnerships and initiatives like his role as Special Advisor to the Institute of Directors Maldives and facilitator of advanced courses, Paul demonstrates his commitment to building governance practices that are inclusive, impactful, and ready for the future.