Nonprofit chief executives should have a title, PRESIDENT/CEO

By Eugene Fram

When nonprofit organizations reach a budget level of over $1 million and have about 10 staff members it is time to offer the chief operating officer the title of PRESIDENT/CEO.  In addition, the title of the senior board volunteer should become CHAIRPERSON OF THE BOARD, and the title of EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR needs to be eliminated.   Experience has shown that with a reasonably talented PRESIDENT/CEO at the helm, he/she can provide the following benefits:

• Build a trust culture between board, management and staff.
• Solve many operational problems that have previously been referred to the board.
• Operate with fewer standing board committees.
• Form a well-structured fund-raising partnership with board members.
• Develop an entrepreneurial theme internally
• Improve operational communications.
• Assist the board chair in conducting meetings in a more effective manner.
• Make certain board members have meaningful involvement in the affairs of the organization.
• Develop more cost effective programs and processes.  
• Allow the board to focus on its major responsibilities, development of policies and strategies.

Source: Policy vs. Paper Clips – Third Edition (2011) Amazon. Com.

A complete list of my blogs on nonprofit boards/management is available at: http://bit.ly/yfRZpz