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By Nick Koerbin
According to the latest figures from the ATO, there are 660,000 not-for-profit organisations in Australia, including registered charities,
incorporated associations, and other entities.
The not-for-profit sector employs over 2 million people, and most organisations are governed by volunteer boards. Their success relies on
the skills, knowledge, and experience of the appointed board or committee members.
Your dedication and effort are commendable if you volunteer on the Board or Committee of a not-for-profit organisation. We understand the
significant time and commitment these roles require.
The key to the success of these boards lies in fostering robust discussions and collaboration among Board members to reach strategic
decisions and policies. Here are some of my ideas to ensure a harmonious and productive Board:
😎 Provide a comprehensive induction process for all new Board members to ensure their understanding of the constitution, bylaws, and
policies.
😎 Communicate the roles, responsibilities, and expectations of Board members.
😎Encourage professional behaviour, particularly during Board meetings.
😎Ensure all Board members are aligned with the organisation's Vision and Mission and are actively working towards its goals and objectives.
😎Establish a process for rewarding or recognising board members for their dedicated service. This could range from life membership to a
simple certificate thanking the Board member for their time and commitment.
Following these essential guidelines will help develop a forward-thinking and harmonious board.
The association sector is in the middle of a leadership handover.
Across Australia and New Zealand, CEOs and Executive Directors are moving on. Some are retiring. Some have gone to larger organisations.
Some have left because the relationship with their Board ran out of puff. The reasons vary, but the movement is noticeable, and Boards are
appointing replacements.
The encouraging part is the calibre of the people coming in. Many are genuinely well suited to the job — capable executives with strong
records behind them. A good number are stepping into an association CEO role for the first time.
Most associations can provide a long list of membership benefits. They may include professional development, advocacy, networking, industry information, events, resources, accreditation, discounts and access to specialist advice. However, a list of benefits does not necessarily explain why someone makes the decision to join.
While every Board is different, the same governance issues appear time and again. One of the most common is allowing one person’s behaviour
to dominate the Board table.
Almost every Board has experienced it at some point. One director who seems to consume more time and energy than everyone else combined.
How we help membership based, not-for-profit associations now and into the future.
