Start with the decision the board is facing

The most useful first message tells me which decision a board is facing and why it wants another voice on it. A terminal concession, a fleet or network review, a partnership with a public body or an acquisition in a fragmented market are the subjects where I can contribute most. Please include the company's ownership, where it operates, the committee you have in mind and the expected time commitment. I will reply within a week, and I may decline if a relationship with Banagra Sealink or its shareholders makes the seat unsuitable. I cannot discuss our fares, timetables, berth fees or negotiations with any third party. Passengers, shippers and suppliers should contact Banagra's customer and procurement teams, who can help far more quickly than I can. A search firm retained by a board may also make the first approach for it.