What question did this study set out to answer?

This research aims to explore how clear expectations of roles influence the relationship between nonprofit boards and senior leadership.

May 28, 2026

Clear expectations of roles help nurture board–leadership relationship

Key Points

This research aims to explore how clear expectations of roles influence the relationship between nonprofit boards and senior leadership.
Qualitative analysis of governance practices in nonprofit organizations
Review of board-leadership interactions
Assessment of trust and strategic alignment
Boards with clearly defined roles reported higher productivity and collaboration
Increased trust between board and leadership correlated with improved organizational outcomes
Shared strategic vision led to more effective mission progress

Abstract

Governance experts often note that a healthy relationship between a nonprofit's board and its senior leadership is critical for ensuring the board's effectiveness. If these parties all respect each other and get along well, trust each other's motivations and intentions, and largely agree on the organization's strategic path, the board is more likely to be productive and work in tandem with the organization's nonprofit's staff to make progress toward its mission.

Connected Papers

Building similarity graph...

Analyzing shared references across papers

Discussion

Journals

Board & Administrator for Administrators Only

Actions

References and Citations

Connected Papers

Building similarity graph...

Analyzing shared references across papers

Clear expectations of roles help nurture board–leadership relationship

Key Points

Abstract

Citation Network

Connected Papers

Discussion

Journals

Actions

References and Citations

Citation Network

Connected Papers

Discussion

Cite this study