For nonprofits leadership transitions are a time of exceptionally high risk. Here, three internationally-respected experts show how to systematically identify, introduce, support, and monitor leaders in ways that enhance rather than undermine their performance. They explain why leadership transitions are so challenging for nonprofits, and show how to replace chaos and crisis with proven, sustainable leadership transition plans.   Writing for all nonprofit board members, leaders, aspiring leaders, and stakeholders, the authors demonstrate how to: Maintain organizational momentum, continuity, and credibility through the transition Find leaders who align well with your organizational values and its evolving culture Avoid fighting, rumors, accusations, and the common mistakes that derail nonprofit leadership transitions Build a sturdy bridge between departing and incoming leaders Set appropriate expectations for both boards and leaders, and guide them to complement each other successfully Plan succession and continuity for the long-term Use transitions to advance the organization’s mission

Table of Contents:
Introduction     1   Section 1:  Leadership and the Challenge of Transition Chapter 1   What Makes Nonprofit Leadership So Challenging?     29 Chapter 2   Why Transitions Fail     53   Section 2:  Fundamentals of Effective Leadership Chapter 3   Mission, Vision, and Effective Leadership     77 Chapter 4   Leadership and Strategy     95 Chapter 5   Good Governance     109 Chapter 6   Alignment     131   Section 3:  Professionalizing the Transition Process Chapter 7   Creating a Transition Management Plan     151 Chapter 8   Transition Management     175 Chapter 9   Managing the Search Process     191 Chapter 10  Using Interim CEOs During Transition     223 Chapter 11  Introducing the New Leader     235   Section 4:  Attending to New Beginnings Chapter 12  Succession Planning     253 Chapter 13  Leadership Continuity and Long-Term Governance     265 Epilogue     285   Section 5:  Tools Appendix A  Notes on Research and Research Methods     289 Appendix B  Sample Leadership Transition Plan     291 Appendix C  Sample CEO Job Descriptions     303 Appendix D  Sample CEO Evaluation Templates     315 Appendix E  Sample Board Evaluation Templates     327 References     337 Index     345