Board and Executive Director Relationship – Part 1/3: Supporting Your Executive Director

We all know you joined your nonprofit's board because you care about the mission - but do you ever wonder why some nonprofits create tremendous impact while others are barely moving the needle? The difference often comes down to how the board supports its Executive Director.

Create Clear Leadership Lanes

Be honest - are you blurring the lines between governance and operations? Stop micromanaging the details that belong in your ED's court. Instead, focus board meetings on strategic direction and let your ED handle day-to-day operations. If it's in the ED's job description, step back and let them lead! When you respect these boundaries, everyone thrives.

Become a Resource Activator

Your value goes beyond attending meetings. Are you making introductions to potential donors? Sharing your professional network? Offering your expertise when (and only when) it's truly needed? The best board members act as amplifiers, not roadblocks.

Build Infrastructure for Success

This means regular check-ins between your ED and board chair, investing in professional development, and setting clear annual goals with quarterly reviews. These structures aren't bureaucratic red tape - they're the scaffolding that supports strong communication and a positive board-ED relationship.

This isn't just feel-good advice. Research shows that Executive Directors who feel properly supported are significantly less likely to burn out. And when your ED thrives, your entire organization flourishes.

Next week, we’ll take a look at a blueprint to ensure exceptional board governance!

Take a look at Carrie’s LinkedIn post on supporting your Executive Director! And subscribe to our newsletter for more helpful tips!