A smooth CEO transition in a nonprofit should resemble the precision of a relay race — timing, trust, and preparation are key. Compassion International’s CEO transition provides a roadmap for nonprofit boards navigating leadership changes, regardless of organizational size.
In 2024, we interviewed Judy Golz and Karen Wesolowski, current and former board chairs, respectively, alongside former CEO Wess Stafford and his successor Jimmy Mellado. Their insights reveal a well-executed transition built on early planning, collaboration, and humility. Click here to download the full case study.
Summary of Compassion’s Best Practices:
- Begin succession planning early. A structured framework ensures a calm, deliberate process rather than a reactive, crisis-driven transition.
- Involve key stakeholders to reduce uncertainty and build buy-in.
- Evaluate both internal and external candidates, prioritizing mission alignment and leadership capabilities.
- Interview and select a qualified executive search consultant that brings significant experience in the sector and access to a broader relational network.
- Establish clear protocols to prevent ambiguity. The outgoing leader’s role should support—not overshadow—the new CEO.
- Structured onboarding should include overlapping leadership periods, formal endorsement from the outgoing leader, and board oversight.
- A public transition ceremony reinforces unity and continuity.
- Outgoing leaders should release control, while incoming leaders should approach their role as servant-leaders.
- Prioritize donor communications during leadership transitions.
- Outgoing leaders should use their influence to build trust in the new leader by affirming their successors publicly and privately.
- Clearly define emeritus roles and ensure they align with board-approved expectations.
- Protect organizational stability by encouraging new leaders to focus on trust-building and cultural integration before implementing change.
- Implement regular performance reviews to track leadership effectiveness.
- Build leadership development into the organization’s long-term strategy.
By following the best practices modeled by Compassion and its leaders, nonprofits can confidently navigate leadership transitions. Compassion International’s approach underscores the importance of proactive planning, collaboration, and humility and how adopting these principles can ensure a smooth transition that sustains and advances an organization’s mission.
Gain deeper insights into Compassion International’s leadership transition and how your organization can apply these lessons. Download the full case study today to access additional details, best practices, and firsthand perspectives from key leaders.
For more information, contact Bill Peterson at bpeterson@carterbaldwin.com.
