Private equity investors appoint non-executive directors (NEDs) to portfolio companies for their time availability, strategic and operational experience, and to serve as an intermediary between management and investors. As a NED, one must add functional strength, act independently, ask incisive questions, and dedicate sufficient time. Skills and experience in areas like public company governance, relevant industry expertise, and managing stakeholder expectations are desirable. The time commitment for a NED role in a private equity-backed company is typically less than for a public company role, but involves more operational involvement and additional meetings given the shorter investment time horizon.