Revolutionized Nonprofit Board Recruitment: The Novel 'Open Board Search' Method
In a groundbreaking move, the nonprofit sector is embracing a novel approach to board recruitment, known as "Open Board Search." This innovative, transparent, and competitive process, similar to a public job posting, is gaining traction in the nonprofit world.
Instead of relying on personal networks and private referrals, nonprofits are now openly advertising board openings to attract a diverse range of candidates who apply competitively. This shift in strategy taps into new talent pools and networks previously unexplored by the organization.
The source of this press release is Potrero Group, a company with a wealth of experience in the cultural, environmental, and social sectors. Daniel Student, MBA, a managing director at Potrero Group, has played a significant role in developing and defining its open board search practice. Cleveland Justis, MBA, PhD, the founder of Potrero Group, has also been instrumental in helping hundreds of nonprofit boards grow and evolve. Stephanie Duncan Karp, MFA, another managing director at Potrero Group, oversees its search and consulting practices.
The open board search movement is a response to global instability and uncertainty, aiming to transform the nonprofit sector by providing boards with wider perspectives and broader skillsets. The authors argue that this approach is crucial for increasing the effectiveness of nonprofits.
One of the early adopters of this new approach is NatureBridge, an outdoor education nonprofit. Phillip Kilbridge, President & CEO of NatureBridge, notes that applicants are attracted to the mission and eager to contribute. Susan S. Boren, MBA, the board chair of NatureBridge, has also served on numerous nonprofit and corporate boards and supports the open recruitment process.
The traditional method of recruiting board members from personal networks is common among nonprofits, leading to a limited pool of individuals. However, the open board search practice at Potrero Group offers a refreshing alternative. This approach involves key steps such as establishing consensus on the need for change, creating clear, mission-aligned job descriptions, conducting a bias-mitigated selection, and providing thorough onboarding for new board members.
Nonprofits embracing the open recruitment process report enhanced strategic thinking and improved alignment with their mission. While the open search process requires commitment, transparency, and inclusive communication within the organization to ease concerns, it ultimately fosters a more engaged and diverse governance culture for nonprofits.
For more information, please contact Stephanie Karp at (503) 440-3621 or [email protected].
Sources: 1. Press Release 2. Article on SSIR.org 3. Contact Information for Potrero Group 4. Article on SSIR.org
The open board search practice, pioneered by Potrero Group, entices candidates from diverse backgrounds in finance, leadership, news, and business, broadening the skillset of nonprofit boards. Nonprofit leaders like Phillip Kilbridge and Susan S. Boren are advocates for this approach, as it offers a refreshing alternative to the conventional recruitment methods employed by many in the sector.
