State of the Market Global Report
- Impact Boards EM
- Oct 8
- 2 min read
The State of the Market 2025–2027 report explores the evolving landscape of advisory board practice, where the balance of art and science shapes real-world impact. Drawing from the latest research, this report explores how skilled facilitation, adaptive engagement and collaborative dynamics – the “art” of advisory boards – combine with structured processes, governance frameworks and defined operational models – the “science” – to drive stronger outcomes.
Exploring the art and science of advisory board best practice
Advisory boards are no longer a luxury – they are a strategic necessity. The State of the Market 2025–2027 report uncovers the pivotal role advisory boards now play in shaping organisational resilience, innovation, and long-term success. This ground breaking research captures both the art of skilled facilitation and human dynamics, and the science of structured governance and operational excellence – offering a comprehensive roadmap for organisations determined to lead in an increasingly complex environment.
With advisory board participation soaring to an estimated 9.8 million professionals globally, the report offers deep insights into how organisations that adopt best practice frameworks are gaining a competitive edge.
Backed by robust global research and supported by the professional advisory community, the State of the Market identifies three critical megatrends that will define the sector over the next two years:
Integrated Governance Systems aligning advisory boards with broader organisational governance structures.
Informed Leadership leveraging advisory boards to boost decision-making confidence among executives.
Balancing Short-Termism with Long-Term Strategy, where advisory boards deliver responsive value amid uncertainty.
The research shows that when advisory boards are well-designed and aligned to organisational needs, 77% of organisations report positive outcomes, while poorly executed boards risk offering little or no value. Organisations that embrace clear structures, expert facilitation and purpose-driven engagement are significantly better positioned to adapt to disruption and thrive through change.
“Advisory boards are becoming a powerful catalyst for growth, resilience, and innovation,” said Louise Broekman, report author and Head of the Advisory Board Centre Global Research Council. “The future belongs to leaders who intentionally invest in the art and science of best practice – building advisory boards that deliver measurable impact.
”Despite ongoing economic uncertainty, business leaders engaging advisory boards remain highly optimistic, with 85% forecasting improved conditions for their organisations. As external regulatory reforms and internal strategic ambitions drive accelerated advisory board formation, the need for professional development, governance system design and expert facilitation skills has never been greater.
View the full report below.
