Is Executive Transition the Big Bad Wolf?

We all know the story.  Fearing the Big Bad Wolf, one little pig builds with straw, one with twigs, and only one builds a solid brick structure.   According to BoardSource’s 2017 Leading with Intent study, only 27 percent of nonprofit organizations have written succession plans.   Proportionately, the little pigs are outpacing nonprofits.

By and large, nonprofits are afraid to address executive transition. We’re afraid that succession planning sends “signals” of imminent change or instability, so we don’t adequately invest in leadership development or plan for the next generation of leaders. When it comes to organizational leadership, too many boards are building with twigs and straw.

But - even if you’re afraid of the Big Bad Executive Transition – there are some leadership bricks you can use to prevent your nonprofit house from being blown down.

Invest in the next generation of staff leaders
Using your strategic plan, define the skills and competencies that the organization needs to succeed. Build job descriptions and training on these essential attributes. Develop staff through stretch assignments. Allow them to take risks, making sure you support them with time and mentoring from other staff or Board members. Be intentional about inclusion and equity as you develop staff. Yes, your staff may eventually leave. But if you help them become stronger and more capable, they can still help deliver mission even if it’s from another organization.

Shift from board recruitment to managing board succession
Recruitment is a transactional activity to get people in seats.  Recruitment is absolutely part of succession, but it’s only a part.  Managing board succession is an ongoing process of engaging board members, developing a culture of critical questioning, and developing on-going leadership both within your organization and by acting as liaison with aligned organizations.

Building your staff and board strengthen your organization and its mission delivery.  By itself, this makes your organization more impactful.  It also strengthens the nonprofit house for the day when the Wolf of Transition comes to huff and puff at your door.