Veblen Directors Programme Reviews 17

Veblen is a unique program. When I joined it, I had two main goals: how to expand my network and visibility globally and how to partner strategically between internal audit and boardrooms/senior management. Later, I realized that Veblen was not a traditional training program, it helped me transform my perspective toward the boardrooms and myself. I am impressed by the way of learning by doing, as I sit in three Advisory Boards in US and Africa, wonderful connections worldwide and across many industries, coaching sessions, and many more opportunities. Coming from the corporate world and audit profession, this shift of perspective toward a practical and impactful approach was a challenge for me, but definitely worth.
I like the moto "Veblen doesn’t do the work - you do", so it welcomes ambitious and driven professionals eager to share and get the best from this program.

I normally don’t write reviews like this, but after my experience and multiple conversations with other members, I feel a responsibility to warn others.

Firstly, DON’T TRUST the positive reviews here.
Members are encouraged to leave positive reviews in exchange for benefits. What you see online is NOT an objective reflection of real member experiences.
This program is NOT what it claims to be.

Their “30-day guarantee” is MISLEADING.
They claim you’ll get a board seat within 30 days. In reality, many members don’t get any board position even after months—or over a year. The “guarantee” is NOT a real guarantee once you’ve paid. Do NOT fall for this.

You pay for “support” — but YOU’RE ON YOUR OWN.
Once you join, there is very little real guidance or structured support. The experience quickly shifts from “we will help you” to “this is what YOU need to work on.” after you join.
A key issue is that the program does NOT demonstrate the level of professional, real-world board expertise that it claims to provide. This raises serious concerns about their ability to actually guide members into legitimate board roles.

DO NOT TRUST their online presence.
DO NOT TRUST what you see on THEIR News websites, social media, or Google results, etc. Itś PAID. They work with marketing/PR companies to boost their visibility—SEO, media placements, and online presence are largely PAID. Members are also encouraged to do the same, which creates an illusion of credibility.

AUTOMATIC PAYMENTS — BE CAREFUL.
They DEDUCT FROM YOUR CARD AUTOMATICALLY EVEN IF YOU´RE NOT SATISFIED.
If you sign a contract with them, there are NO clear terms outlining what happens if you are NOT satisfied with the program or service. Many members report that refunds are extremely difficult or impossible to obtain, EVEN IF THEY WERE VERY DISSATISFIED. (NOT worth the money or almost felt like a S**M )

Misleading Guidance - Their Board roles provided are NOT what you think they are.
Because they are NOT truly experienced in placing people into high-level corporate board roles, the strategy used in the program is different from what is advertised.
Members are encouraged to join organizations like NGOs, diversity initiatives, equality-focused organizations, or similar organizations—roles that are typically UNPAID.
Let’s be clear:
You are being guided to take on board roles from NGOs, etc. where you WORK FOR FREE, which is the easiest and quickest way to ¨get you on a board¨ in months. Sure. Not all, but you get a sense of how they ¨guaranteed¨ you to get a board seat in 30 days.
While these roles can have value in certain contexts, they are presented within the program as being equivalent to meaningful, professional board positions, such as those found in prestigious corporate boards. However, this is not a comparable level of opportunity, and the program’s positioning of these roles creates a misleading impression. Additionally, given the lack of clearly demonstrated, qualified expertise in the field, this further reinforces the concern that the representation is MISLEADING.

Concerns about its credibility.
There are also concerns regarding the background and experience of the program founder, management, and staff.
For example, Callum Laing is presented as an authority in this space. However, much of his board-related positioning appears to stem from involvement in self-created or smaller-scale ventures, rather than independent appointments to major corporate boards. He has registered his own companies and appointed himself to their boards.
Additionally, publicly available information suggests involvement in ventures utilizing SME bond structures and IPO-related strategies, some of which reportedly resulted in significant financial losses.
Taken together, It does indicate that he has NEVER served on boards of large, established corporate entities in the world.
This raises a fair question:
Is this the level of experience you expect from someone guiding you into high-level board positions?

Final Warning
This is one of those HIGH-TICKET online programs driven by marketing, image, and sales tactics—not consistent, professional delivery.
Once you pay, IT’S TOO LATE.

Do your own research. Speak to REAL members who really know whatś going on than the ones that got brainwashed. And think very carefully before committing.

I hope this helps others avoid making the same mistake.
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Response to reply: Sure. You would deny its not true. :)

What an AWFUL experience, and a whole load of wasted money... The result: I am now pursuing this through my bank and Trading Standards.

I paid a significant sum to join Veblen Directors in November 2024. The refund policy on their website promises: "We guarantee you an offer of your first board seat within 30 days of joining. Or we will fully refund your money, no questions asked."

I raised concerns within weeks of joining & I made an explicit refund request in February 2025. Both were refused.

When I pointed to the guarantee, I received three different explanations across separate emails about what it actually means - none of which match the wording on their own website. First it was "new members only." Then it was a "30 day window." Then it was "you've had access for 12 months now, we're not budging".

The "board seat offers" they claim to have provided were described in their own team's messages as "Board Opportunity Posts" asking if I was "interested in being considered" and inviting me to "put my hand up." That's a jobs board, not a guarantee.

When I raised this formally I was told I was "free to take any course of action I like" and that my time would no longer be spent on. Make of that what you will.

I am now pursuing this through my bank and Trading Standards.

This is an inspiring group of people. I joined Veblen about a year ago. A few of the advantages of joining are: getting in touch with a group of inspiring and like-minded experienced people, a great continuous internal training program, exclusive chances to build your “board experience”, experience with extensive different views to what you are accustomed to, and last but not least, building new friendships and access to esteemed professionals.

Veblens commitment to preparing professionals and entrepreneurs to start successful careers as Board Members is unmatched. While the Programme follows a master blueprint, this isn’t a ‘one-size-fits-all’ methodology, but more of an a la carte approach, which for me personally has facilitated my 1st two board positions while juggling a young family and a demanding business.

As a professional with a background in capital markets and advisory work, I joined the Veblen Director Program to strengthen my board readiness and broaden my governance perspective. The program has offered thoughtful resources, practical insights, and a community that genuinely supports each other’s growth. I’ve also appreciated the responsiveness of the team and the opportunities to deepen engagement as my board journey evolves. A valuable platform for anyone looking to build confidence and competence as a modern board member.

Being part of the Veblen Directors group has been a game-changer for my board journey. Through their expert guidance and strategic focus, I’ve successfully secured four board seats—currently unpaid, but each offering invaluable experience and visibility that are essential stepping stones to future paid opportunities.

Veblen’s emphasis on practical insight, board readiness, and long-term value creation has sharpened my perspective as a board contributor. Their commitment to building capable and confident board leaders truly sets them apart.

I joined 7 months ago and by following the process I now have 5 board seats - it works! But Veblen is much more than a means to get board seats - you become part of an incredibly supportive community of highly experienced professionals from all over the world, who can really provide whatever you need. If you need mentoring or accountability, you have it. If you need a specific skill set, a Veblener in the community will have what you need. If you need funding you can access the GILD. And so on... I achieved what I joined for very quickly but continue to benefit from so much more.

The Veblen Directors Programme is an outstanding initiative designed for aspiring and experienced business leaders. It provides invaluable insights into effective leadership, strategic decision-making, and governance practices. The program brings together expert mentors and practitioners, offering a perfect blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application. Participants consistently praise the engaging sessions, professional networking opportunities, and the transformative impact on their leadership capabilities. An excellent program for those seeking to elevate their careers and make a meaningful impact in their organizations.

I've been undertaking the Veblen Directors Programme over the past year and have found it to be an incredibly valuable experience. The content is thoughtfully curated, combining practical case studies with strategic boardroom insights that are immediately applicable. The calibre of speakers and peer network is exceptional—diverse, experienced, and generous in sharing their knowledge. This programme has challenged my thinking, strengthened my governance expertise, and equipped me with tools to step into Board roles with confidence. Highly recommended for anyone serious about their non-executive career. And it is truly global!

Veblen's focus on value-driven board responsibilities and modern governance has helped me get ready for board possibilities that will make a difference. Their material, peer support, and practical advice have given me the confidence to take on many board posts. I strongly suggest Veblen to anyone who wants to develop a meaningful and purposeful career on a board.

Great practical experience, invaluable exposure to great communities and useful knowledge content, tips and advice

Veblen has been a great opportunity and experience program to help shape the Board journey for many professionals unsure where and how to get started. The team helps match individuals within the first 60 days with an advisory board role and continue dedication and support has been very valuable. For many who consider just certifications as a sure shot way to build a board career, Veblen helps realign that with real life experience and impact

I joined Veblen 12 months ago and have used the content and community to successfully gain 2 Board of Advisors positions, kick-starting my portfolio career and route to paid Board positions.

The quality and diversity of information available to help you grow as a leader and (better) board member is much more valuable than other programs I have experienced BUT the real value lies in the connections that are available - it is yours to take and thrive! If you put in the work - the results will come.

I joined Veblen Director Program (VDP) less than a year ago and I am already a member of four advisory boards across Asia and Europe, including the VDP itself.
The VDP action-focused support community is the number one reason for these results.
If you aspire to become a board member, I strongly recommend joining the VDP community!

Great platform to grow your network at the board level internationally.