 You are a candidate as an executive or non-executive director of a bank under the direct supervision of the ECB. Your role will be to ensure responsible risk-taking and to safeguard the long-term interests of the bank. This requires that the board has a clear vision and strategy and makes balanced and well-informed decisions. As a candidate, you need to demonstrate fitness and propriety for the task. The bank has to decide on the profile for the position, taking into account its current and future needs. We as the ECB expect you to carefully consider your role at the specific bank and whether you are up to the job. We check whether you have sufficient experience and skills to fulfill the role. Are an independent thinker? Have no indication of reputational issues? Have sufficient time to commit to the role? And add value to the board? We ensure that all candidates across the Euro area are treated in the same fair manner. Your bank notifies the National Competent Authority and provides all necessary information punctually, avoiding any delays is in your own interest. We assess all available information. In addition to the documentation, an interview may be conducted. We make all decisions according to national deadlines and strive to conclude them within four months maximum. Some candidates may be considered not fully suitable. Such a consideration will always be discussed with the bank. The outcome might be that we impose specific conditions, obligations or recommendations to make you better equipped for the role. Once you take up the position, the bank monitors your suitability and the collective suitability of the whole board to ensure good governance. In case of new facts, a reassessment might be needed. Fitness and propriety contribute to a sound and stable banking sector. The ECB regularly exchanges views on fit and proper supervision with the banking industry to achieve further improvements. For more in-depth information on our fit and proper supervision, please refer to the ECB guide on fit and proper assessments at www.bankingsupervision.europa.eu.