The Annie E. Casey Foundation's report, Capturing the Power of Leadership Change: Using Executive Transition management to Strengthen Organizational Capacity, highlights the challenges associated with executive transitions and describes a model of executive management transition.
Executive transition
This 2004-2008 series of publications on executive transition management was funded in part by the Casey Foundation and the Evelyn and Walter Haas, Jr. Fund. It features ten reports on topics related to leadership change--using interim directors, "founder's syndrome," how boards can be proactive, and more.
In Letting Go and Leaving: The Founder's Role in a Successful Transition, executive transition expert Tom Adams shares the story of a successful executive transition and tips for letting go (©2003 Common Ground, North Carolina Center for Nonprofits).
Adapt RoadMap Consulting's "Leadership Transitions Work Plan Example" to get a jump start on the executive transition process and timeline.
"Interim Executive Directors: The Power in the Middle" by the Annie E. Casey Foundation and the Evelyn and Walter Haas Jr. Fund explains the benefits and basics of using an interim executive director in a leadership transition. Interim executive directors are highly skilled managers who temporarily take the helm of an organization, help the board and staff address important systems and capacity issues, and lay the groundwork for the permanent leader’s success.
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.
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
Ready to Lead? Next Generation Leaders Speak Out
This report combines perspectives and data from about 6,000 emerging nonprofit leaders from throughout the country on the advantages and drawbacks of leading a nonprofit organization. There are also recommended action plans for nonprofits to engage with immediately in order to bring about real change and develop great leaders for tomorrow.