When One Door Closes: Maximizing nonprofit leadership transitions

Some are calling it The Great Resignation. Others, including the guests on this episode, see it as “The Great Opportunity.” No matter how it is viewed, nonprofit boards and executives must work together to navigate transitions seamlessly, which often includes hiring and onboarding new nonprofit leaders. Research shows that board leadership is crucial, especially during an executive transition. During this time, what does a supportive, engaged board look like? What do board members most need as they stretch their capacity to assess the needs of the organization and identify and onboard a new leader? What results can stem from this preparation, or lack thereof? Based on the preferences and priorities of board members during the hiring process, how can a burgeoning nonprofit executive position themselves for a leadership position? Our guests include Dr. Mandi Stewart, an associate professor at North Carolina State University and researcher on nonprofit executives, executive transition management among nonprofit boards, and board management of diversity, equity, and inclusion; and Sally Bryant, president and CEO of executive recruitment firm Bryant Group, who is known for elevating both human and organizational capacity so that they thrive together.