Anyone who wants to try and take on a non-executive director position should be fully aware of all of the knowledge and responsibility that is required of the position.  The role that they take on is one that will help the board fulfill its objectives.  They accomplish this by coming up with different strategies behind the scenes and by offering up suggestions on how the business should be run.  They also offer up their experience to help the company meet its goals.  Because of the vital role that they play in the success of a company, they are often hired to work alongside Executive Directors.