There are more than 1.5 million registered nonprofit organizations in the United States. These range from small operations with 1-2 people to multimillion-dollar enterprises.
As a nonprofit grows, it needs to have the right leadership in place to guide the organization. Governance and compliance are big issues for nonprofits as well.
There is the executive director, the board, and the nonprofit executive committee. Most people are familiar with the executive director and board positions.
What are the responsibilities of the executive committee and how does it differ from the other positions?
Keep reading to find out.
What Are the Roles and Responsibilities of a Nonprofit Executive Committee?
The nonprofit executive committee is really the driving force behind the organization. It’s a small and agile committee that consists of board members and the executive director.
There may be other members depending on the bylaws of the organization.
The executive committee meets on a regular basis and holds emergency sessions on an as-needed basis.
Executive committee members are responsible for hiring the executive director. They advise the board and executive director.
The executive committee also oversees the organization, including the board of directors. They set goals and strategic plans for the nonprofit organization.
Members of the executive committee examine board effectiveness and find ways to make improvements.
Executive committee members have some powers that board members don’t have. However, that doesn’t mean the committee can do whatever it wants.
For instance, a nonprofit executive committee shouldn’t make changes to the organization’s bylaws. They may make recommendations and bring them to the full board for a discussion and vote.
They can’t remove or install other board members. This has to occur according to the bylaws of the organization.
How to Find the Best Executive Committee Members?
If you want to have a thriving executive committee, you need to hire the right board members.
Board members already have a passion for the cause. They should also have a skill set to contribute to the organization.
Where nonprofits get lost is that they put someone on the board with ties to an organization that would make a great partner or sponsor.
It turns out that the board member doesn’t have time to contribute. They only show up to meetings and don’t provide the connections the nonprofit needs.
You have to be clear on your reasons for hiring a board member and make sure they’re coming from the right place.
When you have your board members in place, look for certain qualities to form an effective executive committee.
The main characteristic of executive board members is that they have the time and resources to focus on the organization.
An executive committee member needs to be available for planned and unplanned meetings. They also have to be committed and accountable.
Form a Nonprofit Executive Committee
Are you ready to form a nonprofit executive committee? Now that you understand the roles and responsibilities of committee members, it’s clear that you need to find people who have the time and energy to commit to the organization.
If you enjoyed learning about nonprofit leadership roles, you’ll enjoy the other articles on the blog. Check them out today!
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