Governance Partnership

The governance of a nonprofit organization can succeed with effective leadership. A growing body of research on nonprofit governance agrees that this leadership must be provided by the Board Chair in partnership with the Chief Executive. This emerging nonprofit governance model contrasts with the corporate governance model where the roles of  Board Chair and Chief Executive are held by a single person.

The parameters of a  governance partnership include:

1. A dynamic relationship between board chair and chief executive that is based upon mutually agreed upon roles and responsibilities with a shared commitment to pursue mission outcomes while ensuring organizational performance;
2. A mutual respect that balances a commitment to collaboration and respective autonomy as Board Chair and Chief Executive  participate in decision-making while promoting role clarity, accountability and transparency; and
3. A commitment to build trust through effective practice patterns of communication and stewardship.

An effective governance partnership will build the culture of the board of directors and the organization. A culture based upon partnership will lead to the achievement of  mission outcomes and the enhancement of organizational performance which are the criteria for success.