succession planning – Wishnick & Associates

How to Talk About Succession Planning

Nonprofit executives and board members often feel uncomfortable when someone mentions “succession.” There are usually awkward half-laughs, glances around the room to see how others are reacting, and a sense of liberation – finally, someone has mentioned the dreaded topic. The chief executive is concerned that mentioning succession will make the board think they are considering leaving. The board is worried that it will send an unintended message to the chief executive that they should be thinking about moving on. If a founder is involved, let’s face it, the level of uneasiness skyrockets. […]

At the Threshold of a Leadership Transition: What’s on the Other Side?

Consulting with nonprofits on strategic planning and organizational development, I’ve seen how succession planning has emerged as a very important task for the board and executive leadership. Succession planning involves developing talent within an organization to assume higher levels of responsibility, as well as identifying a plan for seamless continuity when the executive director/CEO leaves.

When an organization has a succession plan in place, stakeholders tend to feel confident that come what may, they will be prepared. In reality, however, when a nonprofit board of directors is faced with an executive leadership transition, they cross a threshold into uncharted territory. […]