Executive Committee Vs Board of Directors
Having an executive committee can be beneficial for non-profit organizations that need to get work done quickly and efficiently. Some boards may have difficulty delineating the difference between an executive board and a board.
The executive committee is comprised of members who are accountable for handling urgent issues and serve as the board’s ears and eyes during meetings. Typically, they’re made up of three to seven members.
The executive committee is usually comprised of two members: a vice-chairperson and secretary. The chairperson’s job is to speak for your board and guide the committee. The vice-chairperson assists the chairperson and may be their replacement if necessary. The secretary keeps minutes of meetings, a schedule for the committee, and ensures everyone has access to committee documents.
The executive committee is part of the board, but still has the authority to govern the business. King advises a board to carefully consider delegating functions to an executive panel to avoid creating a threatening “two-tier” power dynamic where the committee assumes decision-making powers that, by law or constitution are the responsibility of the board.
Having an executive committee can be beneficial for a non-profit, especially in cases where it’s not practical or possible for the board of directors to meet in person with a short notice to discuss urgent issues. The executive committee gives leaders who are close with the organization through their leadership positions a platform to make key decisions in areas like high-level workplace issues, organizational oversight and Board development.