If you think governance is “boring”, then you’re doing it all wrong. If you think governance is a tick-box exercise, then you’re doing it all wrong. If you think governance is a chore, a burden, or an effort, then YOU ARE DOING IT ALL WRONG!
I am so disappointed when I speak to colleagues and they talk about governance in such negative terms. I am so sad when people complain about the lack of engagement amongst their board. And I am so deeply frustrated when I see associations perpetuate the stereotypes of governance as dull, disinteresting, and something that directors and executives alike seem to dread.
I am exasperated when I watch membership bodies squander the opportunities afforded to them through proactive, engaged and constructive governance. A board of directors should only be an asset to its association, adding specialist insights, contributing professional expertise, and supporting the long-term sustainability of the organisation.
The interests of an association are not best served by directors discussing minutiae. Protecting and advancing the interests of an association requires vision, ambition, courage and, crucially, relevance.
If your board isn’t discussing emerging technologies, what is it doing? If your board isn’t addressing social responsibilities, what is it doing? If your board isn’t considering economic trends; if your board isn’t focussed on 2022, 2025, 2030; if your board doesn’t add value, WHAT IS IT DOING?
Our boards of directors are untapped resources which should be used relentlessly to advance the interests and value of the association. If your association isn’t compliant or is borderline insolvent then yes, you’ve got much bigger problems to worry about than investing in innovation, but if you’re focussed on growth, enhancing financial strength and ensuring business resilience, then your board should be centre-stage in terms of strategic planning and generative thought.
People often ask me how membership governance differs from other forms of governance, and in truth it is the opportunity to utilise members’ skills and expertise for the long-term benefit of the association that is the key differential. Everyone must be compliant – profit, non-profit, charity, third sector. Everyone must be solvent. Everyone must fulfil their regulatory and fiduciary roles. But not every board has the opportunity to influence the way in which membership boards can.
But that influence must be positive and constructive, and the very best way to realise that responsibility is:
To be strategic;
To be big picture; and
To be transformational.
Are you looking to get the most out of your Board?
We can help! Book in a free consultation with our in-house Governance expert, Andrew Chamberlain, to learn more about how Elevated can propel your organisation's success.
T: +44 (0)7815 626 630