"I had the auspicious opportunity to work with Bob as our spiritual organization was going through a Founder's transition process. Bob's first-hand experience with such transitions as well as his depth of knowledge and emotional maturity made the tender process engaging, collaborative, and successful for all involved. His warm, approachable demeanor and sincere care for his clients are a rarity in today's world. I would highly recommend him."
-La Sarmiento, Board President and Teacher, Insight Meditation Community of Washington
Schedule a free 30-minute consulting session
Founder Transitions
Founder transitions are pivotal moments in the life of an organization. When the person who birthed the organization, nurtured and supported it (sometimes for decades) decides to step down, a lot of emotions and anxieties surface for the founder, staff, board, participants, and other stakeholders.
The board and staff need to step up in new and different ways. And, the Founder has to start stepping back and letting go. Not as easy as it sounds.
The staff and board may ask:
-
How will the organization survive without our founder?
-
What skills does the successor ED need?
-
Will some of our funders and donors jump ship?
The Founder may ask:
-
How will the organization survive without me?
-
What will I do next after devoting my life to the organization?
-
Should I step away completely or keep some role (like staying on the board or helping with fundraising)?
The goal of a Founder Transition is to set the organization and Successor ED up for success.
A thoughtful and experienced partner can help you answer all those questions (and more!) and provide guidance and support to navigate the process with respect, appreciation, and compassion. Contact me to learn how a combination of coaching and consulting will help you with this crucial transition.