Membership FAQs
How many individual membership categories are there?
GCC BDI has 3 individual membership categories:
- Ordinary (O.BDI)
- Member (M.BDI)
- Fellow (F.BDI)
Each membership category offers distinct benefits and has specific eligibility criteria. You can view the full list of membership benefits here.
I want to join the GCC BDI. How do I become a member?
- Ordinary (O.BDI):
Simply apply via our website and submit an updated CV that demonstrates your interest in governance or early-career experience in governance roles. - Member (M.BDI):
Individuals can apply online if they meet the eligibility criteria. Those who successfully achieved the level of Certified Director* or Certified Board Secretary* also qualify. - Fellow (F.BDI):
Fellows are recognised for their senior governance experience and professional excellence. Applications are by invitation or via an approval process.
* Certification must be attained from a recognised and bona fide body or institute
To start your membership journey, apply here.
What are the eligibility criteria for each membership category?
- Ordinary (O.BDI)
- Early-stage governance professionals or individuals interested in governance.
- Professionals with up to 5 years of experience working with boards or governance.
- Member (M.BDI)
- Minimum 5 years of board or governance-related experience in roles such as Director, Senior Executive, Board Secretary, Trustee, or Professor.
- Have successfully achieved the level of Certified Director* or Certified Board Secretary*
* Certification must be attained from a recognised and bona fide body or institute
- Fellow (F.BDI)
- By Application
- Membership Tenure: Be a Member of GCC BDI for at least two consecutive years; OR
- References: Provide endorsements from two current Members and one Fellow.
- AND
Experience: At least 10 years of board or senior governance experience, meeting specific tenure requirements:
- One role for a minimum of six consecutive years, and a second role for three years;
OR
- One role for a minimum of six consecutive years, a second role for two years, and a third role for one year.
- OR
- Certification: Hold a recognised Chartered Director or Chartered Secretary designation.
- By Invitation
- The Board may invite individuals based on significant contributions, professionalism, and standing in the governance field.
Exceptional Circumstances:
Former Fellows may be readmitted at the discretion of the Membership Committee, even if they do not meet current requirements.
What are the membership fees?
Membership Category | Joining Fee | 1 Year |
2 Years
| 3 Years |
Ordinary (O.BDI) | USD 50 | USD 250 | N/A | N/A |
Member (M.BDI) | USD 50 | USD 350 | USD 550 | USD 750 |
Member GCC BDI Certified (M.BDI) | USD 50 | USD 300 | USD 400 | USD 450 |
Member GNDI (M.BDI) | USD 50 | USD 300 | USD 400 | USD 500 |
Fellow (F.BDI) | USD 50 | USD 800 | USD 1,250 | USD 1,800 |
Fellow Chartered (F.BDI) | USD 50 | USD 550 | USD 850 | USD 1,250 |
Note: All fees exclude VAT and other applicable taxes.
What happens if I let my membership lapse?
If your membership lapses:
- Your benefits will be suspended immediately.
- To rejoin, you will need to reapply and pay a USD 50 application fee.
What are the membership benefits?
Each category comes with unique benefits. For a complete breakdown of the benefits, visit our membership benefits page.
Benefit | Ordinary | Member | Fellow |
E-Newsletter | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Networking Events | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Director Speed Networking | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Director Majilis | ✔ | ✔ | |
“Ask the Expert” Series | ✔ | ✔ | |
Research Reports | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
CPD Points | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
Membership Directory Access | Restricted | Full | Full |
Workshop Discounts | 5% | 12% | 24% |
Board Opportunities | ✔ | ✔ | |
Directors' Register | ✔ | ✔ | |
Study Trips | At Cost | At Cost | At Cost |
Mentorship Programme | Mentee | Mentee/Mentor | Mentor |
Overseas IoD UK Membership | ✔ | ||
Chaine des Rotisseurs Invitation | ✔ | ||
Customised Board CV Templates | ✔ | ✔ |
Can I upgrade my membership category?
Yes, members may apply to upgrade their membership:
- Ordinary can apply for Member status once they meet the experience requirement.
- Members can apply for Fellowship once they meet the 10-year experience requirement or hold a qualifying Chartered designation.
Can I downgrade my membership?
No. Existing Members/Fellows cannot downgrade to the Ordinary membership. Similarly, individuals who qualify for higher tiers cannot apply for Ordinary membership.
What is the Alumni status?
Former Associates who do not transition to a paid membership will be reclassified as Alumni.
Alumni:
- Will receive occasional updates.
- Must pay to attend any GCC BDI events.
Where can I access the membership rules and policies?
The full GCC BDI Membership Rules and Regulations can be accessed here.
Who can I contact for more information?
For any membership-related questions or concerns, please contact the Membership Team at membership@gccbdi.com.