Mcklein Javeri Insights

How Mcklein Javeri Landed Multiple Board Roles Before 35

Hear Mcklein’s account of building a portfolio career across seven boards, after starting in strategy roles at Virgin, easyJet, and Monitor Deloitte. Discover the 5 lessons that make board positions accessible far earlier than you might think — and how to position yourself to break in.

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GUEST SPEAKER PROFILE

Mcklein Javeri

A strategy leader turned multi-board director, Mcklein built his early career at Virgin, easyJet and Monitor Deloitte before pivoting into board work. He's held 7+ Non-Executive Director (NED) and board advisory roles across various industries — all before turning 35.

Mcklein will be our guest speaker on “How to Land a Board Role” — covering myths, tactics, and how to build a portfolio that boosts income, expands your network, and enhances your career beyond the day job.

Top Insights – How Mcklein Javeri Landed Multiple Board Roles Before 35

For many professionals, board roles still feel like something you pursue at the end of your career. Mcklein Javeri’s path proves otherwise. By the age of 35, he had already served on seven boards across industries — building a portfolio career alongside his strategy background at Virgin, easyJet and Monitor Deloitte.

In our latest OnUpBeyond Q&A, hosted by Rich Rosser, Mcklein shared what it really takes to land a board seat, why the traditional route no longer applies, and how to position yourself to break in much earlier than expected.

Here are five takeaways that stood out:

1. You Don’t Need to Wait Until Your 60s

The old belief that boards are reserved for late-career executives is outdated. With the right positioning, capable professionals can access these opportunities much earlier.

2. Build a Unique Value Proposition

Generic strategy credentials are not enough. Boards look for distinct perspectives. Mcklein stressed the importance of identifying the specific mix of skills and sector knowledge that makes you stand out.

3. Most Opportunities Are Hidden

Up to 90% of board vacancies are never advertised. That means job boards and headhunters will not get you far; proactive networking and outreach are critical.

4. Reframe Your Experience as “Board Exposure”

Even without a NED title, you may have worked with or presented to boards. Framing this as board exposure helps demonstrate credibility and overcome the catch-22 of “no prior experience.”

5. Think Portfolio, Not Just Prestige

Board roles are not just status symbols. With the right mix of retainers, sitting fees and equity, they can be financially rewarding and accelerate your wider career progression.

🎥 Want the full playbook?
Mcklein shares his seven-step framework for landing a board role, tactical networking tips, and how to avoid the common missteps that hold people back.