The Role of Board Leadership in Firing a Board Member

When a board member is not fulfilling their duties or is causing harm to the organization, it may become necessary to terminate their position. While this is a difficult decision to make, it is the fiduciary responsibility of the board to ensure that the organization is being properly governed and that its mission is being upheld.

However, it is important to note that the CEO or executive director should not be the one to lead this process. It is a governance issue that falls under the responsibility of the board leadership, particularly the chief elected officer (such as the board chair or president). The CEO or executive director can raise the issue, but it is ultimately up to the board leadership to handle the situation in a systematic and objective way.

Before making the decision to terminate a board member, it is crucial to exhaust all other options. This includes having honest and direct conversations with the individual about their behavior or performance, providing training and support if necessary, and involving a third-party mediator if appropriate. It is important to document all efforts to resolve the issue and ensure that all board members are aware of the situation.

If these efforts do not lead to a resolution, the board leadership should convene a meeting to discuss the termination of the board member in question. This meeting should be conducted in a respectful and objective manner, with the goal of reaching a decision that is in the best interest of the organization.  Remember, it is business and not personal and should be treated in that way.

It is important to follow the organization’s bylaws and policies related to board member termination, and to ensure that the process is fair and transparent. Remember, throughout this process, it is crucial to maintain objectivity and professionalism. It is important to approach this as a business decision, not a personal one as a trustee of the corporation. By following the proper procedures and documenting everything, you can ensure that the termination is carried out in a fair and transparent manner.

When making the decision to terminate a board member, it is important to have a clear and objective reason for doing so. This may include behavior that is harmful to the organization or other board members, consistently missing board meetings or failing to fulfill their responsibilities, or a fundamental disagreement with the organization’s mission or values.

It is also important to ensure that the decision is not based on personal feelings or politics, and that all board members are held to the same standards of conduct and performance. In addition, it is important to consider the impact that the termination may have on the organization’s relationships with members, stakeholders, including donors and volunteers.

Firing a board member is never an easy decision, but it may become necessary for the good of the organization. Board leadership should approach this process with courage and objectivity, ensuring that all efforts have been made to resolve the issue before making a decision. By following a systematic and fair process, the board can demonstrate their commitment to the organization’s mission and values.

If you are a board member or nonprofit leader who is facing this difficult situation, I encourage you to check out my book, The Essential Handbook for Nonprofit Leaders, which is available on Amazon and other retailers. In it, you will find guidance on effective governance practices, including board member selection, evaluation, and termination. With a focus on mission-driven leadership and best practices, this book is an essential resource for nonprofit leaders at all levels.