Who are we?

As a worldwide association of members, the Institute of Directors (IoD) provides a professional network that reaches into every corner of the business community. Our membership spans the whole spectrum of international business leadership, from the largest public companies to the smallest private firms.

Membership of the IoD is individual - each member joins the IoD in his or her capacity as a director. Members receive a variety of benefits including information, advice, training, conferences and publications to help them maximise their potential. They also have an influential organisation on their side - representing their concerns to government - and at their side - providing professional business support, wherever it is needed.

All members have access to facilities in the heart of London and across the UK in the following cities: Belfast, Birmingham, Cardiff, Edinburgh, Manchester, Nottingham and Reading plus by special agreement, IoD members can use the exclusive facilities of France-Amériques, a private members' club in the heart of Paris and Le Plaza Hotel in Brussels.

As the world's most experienced and long-standing organisation advocating director professionalism, the IoD in the UK has received numerous requests over the years to assist and support the start up of affiliate institutes who have benefited from the kudos, reputation and extensive experience of the IoD whilst maintaining an independent stance. The international interest has led to the formation of IoD International, the Institute's global network of IoD branches and affiliates.

IoD in London and the South East

IoD in London and the South East Map

Whilst the London Branches of the IoD have existed for sometime, it’s South Region was only created in April 2004 by the amalgamation of its South Central and South Eastern Regions. It comprised the Branches of: Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Hampshire & Isle of Wight, Kent, Oxfordshire, Surrey Downs, Sussex, West Surrey and West Thames with members spread over this geographical region. In September of 2006 the region was extended to include Milton Keynes and a new Branch formed to better service members in that area.

Together with members in both the Central and City of London branches the area covered by these Awards now stretches from Banbury in the north to Dover in the east with a combined IoD membership of around 20,000.