01/05/2022

Building a Better Board and Interim CEO Relationship

Harness the strength and resilience of an association and its stakeholders

Executive transitions are difficult, and associations often face numerous challenges in managing them. The thought of introducing an interim CEO, effectively a stranger, into a system that is struggling with change seems counterintuitive. Having led several associations in transition, I would share that each in its way was unique, messy, complex—and rich in possibilities and potential.

The human factor—or condition—was palpable throughout the process, as was the culture. This work has enabled me to learn from remarkable experiences and witness the strength and resilience of an association and its stakeholders.

A recent ASAE Research Foundation study, Effective Interim Transitions: Key Takeaways, explores the experience of 15 associations and focuses on the process, the factors that influenced the outcomes, and identifies key elements of how vital an interim CEO can be. The study cites examples of associations brought back from the brink of insolvency, reversing high turnover, fixing board governance practices, breaking down silos and guiding critical technology updates.

Please select this link to read the complete article from ASAE's Center for Association Leadership.