Leading a Nonprofit Organization

Starting a new job is always an exhilarating experience, and in becoming a nonprofit director, you have the power to affect real, lasting change. Whether you are replacing a former executive director or starting your own organization, it is important that your orientation occurs as part of a larger transitional plan. Because the executive director takes the lead in establishing an organization’s climate, work, and processes, assuming control can impact staff morale, board member engagement, and the perception of funders and clients.

Here’s a quick list of the essential documents that a new executive director should gather together on the first day of work and keep in a management folder. If these documents are not already available, you should make it a top priority during your first quarter on the job to get them developed.

General

• Most recent annual report
• Strategic plan
• Staff contact sheet
• Board roster and contact information
• Board policies and procedures
• Technology inventory           
• Organizational conflict of interest policy
• Bylaws
• IRS determination letter

Human Resources

• Personnel handbook
• All job or position descriptions (including your own)
• Employee orientation manual and process

Financial

• Current fiscal year budget
• Current statement of financial position and activities
• Recent audit information (if applicable)

Fundraising

• Funding matrix (with funder name, amounts, and report deadlines)
• Fundraising plan
• Recent proposal(s)