Smart succession planning in today’s nonprofit environment goes far beyond naming the next executive director. It is a proactive, organization-wide strategy to ensure mission continuity, operational resilience, and leadership development at all levels. Effective planning requires a modern understanding of what smart succession looks like: a blend of structured talent development, transparent role expectations, and cross-training that protects institutional knowledge. Nonprofits must consider factors such as funding constraints, board dynamics, equity and inclusiveness in leadership pipelines, and the realities of small teams where people wear multiple hats. By anticipating obstacles like resistance to change, unclear governance roles, or inadequate documentation, organizations can put practical mitigation strategies in place. Join us for this important session where you will learn how to:  

1. Define modern nonprofit succession planning by clarifying its purpose, scope, and what successful, mission-aligned succession looks like in today’s environment 
2. Identify key factors for developing an effective succession plan, including organizational structure, talent readiness, governance roles, equity considerations, and resource constraints 
3. Apply strategies to mitigate barriers and implement best practices that broaden succession planning beyond executive replacement, ensuring leadership continuity across all departments and levels