Who should serve on the governance committee? Based on the size of the board, its level of development, and the other active board committees, anyone – president, board chairman, board members, lead staff members, and qualified members from the community could all be considered. The governance committee can especially benefit by drawing on people with particular areas of expertise. “Naturals” for the committee, assuming they are willing and enthusiastic about taking on this responsibility, include management consultants and organizational development experts, human resource professionals, non-profit executives, and community activists. The governance committee should include people who:
- Have a broad range of backgrounds
- Are active in the community and in various circles
- Can provide wide contacts in the community
- Hold a variety of experiences
- Understand human dynamics and relationship building
- Have experience with organizational development
- Are not afraid to speak up
- Are respected by the board
- Have good judgment and insight to leave a legacy to the board
- Know the organization well and understand the needs of the board
- Have integrity
- Can leave personal agendas behind
- Are willing to bring in new thoughts and perspectives – even question present practices of the board
President’s Relationship
The president has an important role in the activities of the governance committee. He/she also is greatly influenced by those who serve on the board and the quality of board members. It makes sense for the governance committee to work closely with the president and take advantage of his/her contacts, intimate knowledge of the organization, and training abilities. However, it must be clear that the president should not control the choices of the committee. The president can help the committee in the following ways:
- Identifying the needs of the board – the president has a special perspective when looking at the composition of the board.
- Identifying, finding, and cultivating candidates – the president is in an excellent position to recommend candidates because of his/her professional links, knowledge of the ministry, and contacts in the community.
- Orientation and general board education – the president is indispensable in the success of board orientation, and, in general, keeping the board members on top of organizational The president usually knows the organization best, has access to all the necessary documents, and can ensure that everyone receives the same message
Chairman and Vice-Chairman of the Board Relationship
- Since the governance committee serves as the executive committee, the chairman of the board is required to be a member in good standing of the governance
- The vice-chairman of the board is considered to be the logical choice for the next chairman of the The vice-chairman of the board is required to be a member in good standing of the governance committee.