The President of the Board: An Essential Guide for Nonprofits and Corporations Key Responsibilities of the President of the Board Qualities of a Successful President of the Board Common Mistakes to Avoid 6-Step Approach to Becoming an Effective President of the Board Frequently Asked Questions Conclusion Additional Resources Tables

The president of the board is a key leader in any nonprofit organization or corporation. This individual is responsible for overseeing the board of directors and ensuring that the organization meets its mission and goals.

The president of the board has a wide range of responsibilities, including:

• Presiding over board meetings
• Setting the agenda for board meetings
• Leading the board in developing and implementing strategic plans
• Overseeing the organization’s finances
• Ensuring that the organization is meeting its legal and ethical obligations
• Representing the organization to the public and its stakeholders

Effective presidents of the board share certain key qualities, including:

• Strong leadership skills
• A clear understanding of the organization’s mission and goals
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• A commitment to teamwork and collaboration
• A willingness to volunteer their time and resources

Presidents of the board should avoid making common mistakes, such as:

• Micromanaging the board or the staff
• Failing to delegate responsibilities
• Allowing the board to become bogged down in operational details
• Failing to stay informed about the organization’s activities
• Not being responsive to the needs of the organization and its stakeholders

Individuals who are interested in becoming effective presidents of the board should follow these steps:

1. Get involved with the organization. Volunteer your time and resources to learn about the organization’s mission and goals.
2. Join the board of directors. Once you have a good understanding of the organization, you can apply to join the board.
3. Learn the ropes. Participate actively in board meetings and take on leadership roles.
4. Develop your leadership skills. Attend workshops and trainings to develop your leadership skills.
5. Be a team player. Work collaboratively with the other board members to achieve the organization’s goals.
6. Be responsive to the needs of the organization. Pay attention to the feedback you receive from the board, the staff, and the stakeholders.

What is the difference between the president of the board and the executive director?

The president of the board is a volunteer position, while the executive director is a paid position. The president of the board oversees the board of directors, while the executive director manages the day-to-day operations of the organization.

How long does a president of the board serve?

The term length for a president of the board varies depending on the organization’s bylaws. In most cases, presidents of the board serve for one to two years.

Can a president of the board be fired?

Yes, a president of the board can be fired by the board of directors. However, this is a rare occurrence.

What are the benefits of being a president of the board?

Serving as president of the board can be a rewarding experience. It offers an opportunity to make a difference in the community and to develop your leadership skills.

The president of the board is a critical role in any nonprofit organization or corporation. Effective presidents of the board share certain key qualities and follow a proven approach to success. By avoiding common mistakes and embracing best practices, you can become an effective president of the board and help your organization achieve its mission and goals.

• The BoardSource Guide to Board Leadership
• The National Center for Nonprofit Boards
• The American Bar Association Center for Pro Bono