In this episode of the 20 Years of Women on Boards – Inspire | Influence | Impact series, WOB co-founder and CEO Claire Braund OAM speaks with Amanda Heyworth FAICD about building a board career while balancing executive leadership, family life and continuous professional growth. Amand is a professional company director with governance experience spanning startups to ASX 200 companies across technology, finance, property, innovation and venture capital. Amanda discusses the realities of building a board portfolio over time, including reducing executive commitments gradually while expanding her governance career. She also speaks candidly about the importance of finding boards where there is an "Amanda-sized hole" — a role where her skills, experience and perspective can genuinely add value.  Amanda shares practical advice for aspiring directors, emphasising the value of executive experience, governance education and strategic not-for-profit board roles that provide exposure to experienced directors and boardroom dynamics. She describes the Women on Boards community as instrumental in legitimising board careers for women and creating visibility through role models, mentoring and board opportunities.  She also shares insights into the evolution of Women on Boards, the changing expectations placed on directors, and why capability, diversity and lifelong learning remain critical to the future of governance. Asked to summarise her 20-year journey in three words, Amanda's answer perfectly captures the spirit of the episode: "curiosity, growth and contribution". Women on Boards https://www.womenonboards.net/ LinkedIn linkedin.com/company/women-on-boards