Corporate governance framework implementation

Why it matters

In the Natural Resources & Energy sector, governance is not just a regulatory requirement it is a business imperative. These industries face high capital intensity, complex operating structures, environmental scrutiny, and diverse stakeholder interests. Strong governance frameworks help organisations maintain transparency, control risks, and meet stakeholder expectations with confidence.

At BDO UAE, we help companies establish practical and effective corporate governance frameworks that go beyond compliance. Our solutions are tailored to the realities of your operations and designed to embed governance into everyday decision-making, culture, and leadership practices.

What we do

We support clients in developing and implementing comprehensive governance frameworks that are structured, clear, and action-oriented.

• Governance framework design - Develop tailored structures, policies, and protocols aligned with best practices and the three lines of defence model.
• Board governance and effectiveness - Define board composition, committee mandates, meeting protocols, and board evaluation methods to support strong oversight.
• Delegation of authority (DoA) matrix development - Create structured approval workflows and financial thresholds to promote efficiency and accountability.
• Code of conduct and ethics framework - Draft and implement values, ethics policies, whistleblower channels, and employee conduct standards.
• Entity-level controls (ELCs) - Set up foundational governance controls, including tone at the top, leadership messaging, and internal monitoring.
• Policy framework development - Standardise key governance policies covering conflict of interest, insider trading, related party transactions, and more.
• Integration with risk and compliance functions - Align governance with risk management, internal controls, and compliance monitoring for a unified approach.

Sectors we support

We serve clients across capital-intensive, regulated, and multi-stakeholder sectors, including:

• Oil & Gas – Exploration, refining, and joint ventures
• Energy and Utilities – Power generation, transmission, and renewables
• Petrochemicals – Large-scale plant governance and board oversight
• Metals & Mining – Site-level controls, licensing, and ESG risks
• Waste Management – Governance for compliance, safety, and sustainability

Our approach

• Multidisciplinary teams – We combine governance, risk, legal, and technical expertise to offer balanced and implementable frameworks.
• Customised delivery – No templates or theory-only work we tailor each framework to your organisation’s size, complexity, and culture.
• Hands-on execution – We support real implementation, not just design, ensuring the framework works in day-to-day operations.
• Integrated thinking – We connect governance with compliance, risk, ESG, and strategic decision-making.

What you gain

• Stronger oversight – Clear roles and responsibilities help boards and executives make better decisions
• Transparent authority – Well-defined DoA avoids ambiguity and promotes efficiency
• Improved culture and conduct – Ethics frameworks foster accountability and trust
• Regulatory confidence – Alignment with local laws and global best practices
• Operational alignment – Governance that supports - not disrupts - daily operations
• Sustainable performance – Embedded governance ensures long-term resilience

Let’s work together

Whether you are strengthening existing governance or starting from the ground up, BDO UAE helps you move from policy to practice. We design frameworks that drive real behaviour, improve oversight, and support sustainable growth.