At its core, CEO evaluation involves two basic steps: defining the CEO’s job responsibilities and checking back at a later point to determine if the responsibilities were met. Keep in mind: Although formal evaluation is an important component of a good working relationship, it is not a substitute for ongoing communication. CEOs need feedback year... Read More
Board policies work in tandem with the foundation’s bylaws or trust document to create the foundation’s structure. Bylaws or the trust document are legally binding and based in state law; policies also are considered binding, but they are less likely to be backed by force of law and are easier to amend (e.g., usually by... Read More
Regular performance evaluations—at least once a year—can help staff improve their work. The board evaluates the foundation’s lead staff person (i.e., executive director, foundation administrator, CEO). In turn, the lead staff person evaluates other staff members and consultants (as applicable). In some cases, staff members evaluate themselves and then compare their assessments with their supervisor.... Read More
A records retention policy, also known as a document retention and destruction policy, assists your foundation in following the federal laws that impose criminal liability on any organization that destroys records with the intent to obstruct a federal investigation. Foundations should be sure their policy follows state guidelines on how long paper and electronic records... Read More
When an open seat becomes available on your board, how do you decide who will fill it? Do you cross your fingers and hope for the best? Many small foundations rely on luck: filling the board with candidates who have the right last name or the right connection to the board. These candidates, though, might... Read More
Board self-assessment is a process by which you objectively gather board members’ perspectives about how your foundation operates, compile what you learn, and report your findings to the full board so it can learn from the information, leverage successes, and address any shortcomings. In our experience, boards that make time for self-assessments tend to accomplish... Read More