Support and Evaluate the Chief Executive

One of BoardSource’s Ten Basic Responsibilities of Nonprofit Boards is to support and evaluate the chief executive (Executive Director).

Most organizations have a process in place to perform an annual evaluation of the CEO’s performance.  The evaluation provides an opportunity for the board to recognize accomplishments and to discuss any concerns it may have about the CEO’s performance.  Areas from program management to fiscal management and involvement with the community are normally evaluated.

But does your board support your CEO?

It is the board’s duty to make sure that the CEO has the moral and professional support they need to further the goals of the organization.  As a board member, here are some ways that you can support your CEO on a continued basis.

• Attend all board meetings, be on time and prepared
• Ask questions, be actively involved with the organization
• Participate in the annual evaluation process and provide constructive feedback
• Offer a pat on the back after a job well done on an event or program success
• Introduce them to other community leaders
• Provide opportunities for them to speak or attend community functions
• Encourage time off to recharge
• Encourage attendance at trainings and continued education
• Offer support during both good times and difficult times

Contributed by: Carrie Minnich, MAcct, CPA | Partner | DWD CPAs & Advisors