Whose Responsibility Is It to Achieve a Nonprofit’s Strategic Plan?

When a nonprofit organisation sets out to create a strategic plan, it’s a roadmap intended to guide the entire organisation toward mission-driven goals. But once that plan is approved, a common question arises: who is ultimately responsible for ensuring the plan is implemented and successful — the CEO or the Board?

The answer is both — but in different, complementary ways.

The Board’s Role: Oversight and Governance
The Board of Directors holds fiduciary responsibility and provides governance-level oversight of the strategic plan. They ensure the plan aligns with the mission and values of the organisation and that the resources — financial, human, and otherwise — are aligned to support the plan’s success. The Board sets strategic priorities, approves the plan, and monitors progress through regular reporting and accountability frameworks. Their role is not to manage the plan’s day-to-day execution but to hold the CEO accountable for its delivery.

The CEO’s Role: Leadership and Execution
The CEO, on the other hand, is responsible for operationalising the strategic plan. This includes aligning staff, setting KPIs, resourcing programs, and translating broad strategic priorities into actionable activities. The CEO is also the bridge between strategy and implementation — inspiring the team, cultivating stakeholder support, and tracking performance against the plan’s targets. A strong CEO leads the charge, drives internal culture around the strategy, and keeps the organisation moving toward its goals.

Shared Accountability, Distinct Roles
Achieving the strategic plan is a shared responsibility. Success depends on strong partnership and clear communication between the CEO and the Board. When both parties understand their roles and collaborate effectively, strategic goals are not just aspirational — they are achievable.

In the end, strategy is a team sport. The Board sets the direction. The CEO steers the organisation. Together, they ensure the nonprofit makes measurable progress toward its mission. Together, everyone can celebrate and take credit for successful outcomes.