Frequently Asked Questions

  • As a former nonprofit executive leader, I've faced the challenge of making a big impact with limited resources. That's why I know just how valuable it can be to bring in an Interim Executive for your organization.

    The Interim Executive steps in during leadership transitions, providing stability and expertise to keep operations running smoothly and everyone connected to the mission. I know how vital it is to ensure services continue during a leadership transition, and stakeholders are confident that the program continues. Plus, I bring fresh perspectives and smart strategies to the table, helping your organization grow and thrive. And the best part? It's like a shortcut to success with minimal risk, perfectly aligning with your mission and helping you achieve your goals, even in resource-constrained situations.

    My value-based fee structure considers the incoming executive's salary plus benefits, the general scope of work for the interim period, and your organization’s budget.

    Every organization has its own set of needs, so what's available as an interim solution might vary. The hours and duration of your Interim Executive Leadership engagement will also depend on a variety of factors including:

    • The environmental status left by the outgoing executive

    • The org budget

    • The top needs and priorities of the board

    • If the organization/programs/funding is currently functioning as it should

    We'll work together to determine a scope that fits your needs.

  • Unlike current board or staff members who may struggle with objectivity, a Professional Interim Executive offers a neutral perspective and invaluable expertise in nonprofit transitions, facilitating a smooth transition by guiding the board and establishing a solid foundation for the incoming leader. The Interim’s temporary presence not only allows for a clear departure from the previous executive but also presents an opportunity for the organization to undergo an expert-led overall assessment and receive recommendations. An executive leader’s responsibilities cannot simply be absorbed by someone who typically is already juggling their own professional and personal obligations! The position requires — and deserves — an experienced, dedicated professional in the seat, even during transition.

  • Aside from Interim Leadership, I also offer Executive Coaching.

    For project-based services, I offer

    Organizational Evaluation

    Program Development

    Fundraising Strategy

    Grant Readiness Assessment

    Grant writing

    Succession Planning

    Meeting Facilitation

    Strategic planning

    … for nonprofits, mission-driven organizations, NGOs, public services organizations, and charitable organizations.

  • My fees are based on the value I provide, the scale and scope of the project, not hourly rates. I take into account the expected impact for your nonprofit, the effort required from me, and your organization's budget.

    If your needs don't fit neatly into my typical project-based services and you'd prefer an hourly arrangement instead, feel free to reach out and we can discuss that possibility.

  • An Interim Executive Leader assumes leadership during their tenure, addressing major decisions and HR issues. However, their responsibilities are defined in a pre-agreed contract, meaning while they address essential matters, they may not engage in every task the previous director handled. It's important to note that the interim's focus lies predominantly on immediate concerns and may not extend to future-oriented endeavors or relationship-building for prospective work. Relationship building for future growth (with potential funders, partners) should be in the incoming director’s scope of work.

  • Executive searches typically take between 6 and 12 months, from creating the job description to executive on-boarding. A common mistake is rushing to hire a new president, CEO, COO or Executive Director right away to fill urgent needs. But here's the thing: without that transitional period, the organization may miss out on the chance for an outside expert to evaluate systems, operations, and culture. This means the organization might overlook crucial fixes needed before the next leader steps in or hire someone who isn’t the right fit.

    Without an effective leader, there's a risk of service disruption, which directly impacts the ability to deliver smoothly. Plus, there's the financial side: funding could take a hit as donors and funders might hesitate to support the organization without strong leadership. Mission might veer off course without clear direction, leading to a loss of focus on goals. All this on top of day-to-day chaos: without a clear decision-maker, operations can get messy, leaving staff and volunteers uncertain. This uncertainty could drive away valuable talent, damaging the team. As if that's not enough, reputation could take a hit with negative publicity around the leadership vacuum, making stakeholders question the future of the organization.

  • An Interim Executive Leader can provide insights and support you might not anticipate. It's important to understand the Interim Executive isn’t just a temporary placeholder, but rather, a strategic asset that can make a real difference during a difficult leadership transition. By hiring an Interim Executive, you’ll have the rare opportunity to engage an outside nonprofit expert who can seamlessly continue operations while also analyzing systems and practices from a neutral standpoint, and offer recommendations for the board and future leader.

  • Think of Interim Executive Leadership as a short-term engagement with a clear start and finish. It kicks off right before the current leader steps down, or right after, and wraps up roughly 2 weeks to 2 months after the new leader takes charge. This interim period is a key part of the organization's succession plan, ensuring a smooth transition between leaders.