Nonprofit Training- Ready for the Unexpected: Building an Emergency Succession Plan for Your Nonprofit 

Intended Audience: Nonprofit leaders and board members who are interested in learning about building an emergency succession plan for your nonprofit.

Session Facilitator: Leighann Sibal, Senior Consultant, DBD Group 

If a key leader couldn't serve tomorrow, would you be ready? An unexpected circumstance can quickly test an organization’s leadership, governance and operational readiness. Being prepared doesn't mean predicting every possible scenario. It means having the people, plans and practices in place to respond with clarity and confidence when the unexpected happens. 

This practical workshop will help nonprofit boards and executive leaders understand the essential components of an emergency succession plan, including interim leadership, decision-making authority, continuity of critical responsibilities and communication with key stakeholders. Participants will explore potential vulnerabilities within their own organizations and identify practical steps they can take now to reduce disruption and strengthen organizational resilience. 

Key Takeaways 

• Understand the importance of emergency succession planning as a critical governance responsibility and an essential component of organizational resilience and risk management. 
• Recognize the essential elements of an effective emergency succession plan. Clarify the roles of the board, board officers, CEO/Executive Director and senior staff when an unexpected leadership transition occurs. 
• Identify potential vulnerabilities and gaps in their organization's current readiness. 
• Leave with practical next steps to strengthen their organization's readiness and increase confidence in its ability to respond when the unexpected happens.