How a New CEO Can Collaborate with the Board

When a new CEO steps into a nonprofit organisation, one of the most critical relationships to nurture from the outset is the partnership with the Board. This relationship sets the tone for governance, accountability, and ultimately, mission success. For the CEO, aligning closely with the Board can also be the key to achieving personal KPIs and organisational strategic goals.
Start with Shared Purpose
A CEO should begin by establishing a mutual understanding of the mission, vision, and strategic direction. This shared purpose forms the foundation for collaboration. Early conversations with the Board Chair and committee leads can help identify shared priorities and clarify expectations from both sides.
Align KPIs with Strategic Plan
The CEO’s KPIs should directly reflect the nonprofit’s strategic goals. A best practice is to map personal performance indicators to the organisation’s strategy pillars – such as financial sustainability, impact measurement, stakeholder engagement, and innovation. Presenting these aligned KPIs to the Board early can foster trust and ensure transparent evaluation.
Regular, Structured Communication
CEOs should institute regular updates, strategic dashboards, and board briefings that go beyond operational reporting. This encourages joint problem-solving and reduces surprises. Transparency builds credibility, while structured communication ensures the Board remains engaged at a strategic level.
Leverage the Board’s Expertise
Board members are not just governance overseers; they bring networks, expertise, and influence. CEOs should intentionally build relationships with individual Board members, understanding their strengths and tapping into their networks for partnerships, funding, and advocacy opportunities.
Create Joint Ownership of Success
Collaborative goal-setting and strategic retreats that involve both staff leadership and the Board can foster a sense of shared ownership. When the CEO and Board co-create solutions, momentum builds around key initiatives, and the entire organisation benefits from a united leadership front.
Embrace Feedback and Continuous Improvement
A new CEO should create space for mutual feedback with the Board. Inviting feedback and being open about lessons learned sets a tone of humility and growth. It also positions the CEO as a reflective leader focused on long-term success, not just short-term wins.
The most effective CEOs see the Board not as an obligation, but as a strategic partner. By fostering trust, aligning KPIs with strategy, and engaging the Board meaningfully, a CEO not only ensures a successful transition but builds the foundations for bold impact and sustainable growth.
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