Survivors of sexual harassment and assault have pushed the envelope with the courageous #MeToo and #TimesUp campaigns. Bold truth-telling through social media and technology has changed how allegations get reported and how organizations must respond. In fact, the federal government issued a report in its own words to "reboot workplace harassment efforts." A lot has changed with public and enforcement agency expectations for what organizations should be doing.
Adapt RoadMap Consulting's "Leadership Transitions Work Plan Example" to get a jump start on the executive transition process and timeline.
Acting and Interim Chief Executives - During a chief executive transition, nonprofits generally rely on transition leadership to bridge the gap between the former executive's departure and hiring a new CEO. However, the type of transition leadership an organization chooses depends on a number of factors.
Nonprofit Quarterly's "Exit Agreements for Nonprofit CEOs: A Guide for Boards and Executives" provides a context and a set of choices when considering whether an exit agreement is needed and, if so, what might be included. Learn the important difference between an exit agreement and a separation agreement.
BoardSource's Executive Transition Timeline provides a timeline that nonprofits can use to help prepare for an upcoming transition or update their succession planning process.
Adapt this template called, "Confidentiality Agreement for Service on the Search and Transition Committee" from the North Carolina Center for Nonprofits to help committee members be clear about the do's and don'ts around their committee work.
Succession planning can be a touchy subject. Members of a nonprofit board may fear the risk of insulting a CEO by suggesting the topic as an agenda item. Some CEOs may feel disinclined to raise the subject because it could send mixed signals about their intent to remain with the nonprofit.
To find the right firm for your search, you must consider a number of factors. This article shares what actions should be taken prior to selecting and engaging with a search firm. (The Bridgespan Group)
A Nonprofit Organization's Guide to Engaging an Executive Search Firm
Nonprofit boards of directors can adapt these sample policies for CEO evaluation, compensation, and emergency succession. See also: the Kentucky Nonprofit Network's Sample Executive Compensation Policy.
Capturing the Power of Leadership Change: Using Executive Transition Management to Strengthen Organizational Capacity from The Annie E. Casey Foundation highlights the challenges associated with executive transitions and describes a model of executive management transition.