Situation
An Association Board began the process of role clarification for leadership and staff, including updating operational procedures. After almost a year of work, they were unable to conclude the process with consensus on decisions and next steps. That’s where David Kushner Consulting stepped in.
Background
- This all-volunteer-run organization gradually shifted to hiring of staff, yet volunteers had continued involvement in most operational matters
- Membership growth precipitated the hiring of a few employees, and eventually up to 30 staff members
- Operational and governance policies required updating to reflect the changing structure
- Staff leadership turnover created confusion, lack of clarity about roles, and mistrust
- New chief staff executive sought closure to governance changes
Actions
- Reviewed internal governance documents, board minutes, operational and employment policies
- Conducted interviews with senior staff and volunteer leadership to determine respective assessments and goals
- Facilitated special meeting of the board that included discussions about current situation, expectations and measures of success
- Prepared summary of discussions with recommended actions to be taken
- Presented summary at debriefing session of the board, confirmed items of agreement
- Held separate meeting with officers and chief staff executive regarding role clarification and recommended policy changes
Outcomes
- Board developed clearer perspective of its roles and those of staff
- Opened discussions about problems resulting from board involvement in day-to-day operations while serving in volunteer status
- Presented a plan of actions to be considered by board to conclude change process
- Previously “hidden” internal conflicts surfaced, and discussion among parties took place in a facilitated setting to assist in resolution of issues
- Timeline prepared for board actions
- Internal policies and procedures reviewed and modifications suggested
- Board voted to adopt changes
