- Owners: That’s right, members own the organization. It belongs to the members, not the staff. That’s why they’re called membership organizations. Sometimes we forget that.
- Managers: Your volunteer structure ensures that the members are involved in managing the organization. Task Forces, Committees and ultimately the Board of Directors. The Board has fiduciary responsibility for the organization in setting policy and making sure the organization is financially stable.
- Customers: That’s right again! Who buys the Chamber’s products? Membership, monthly luncheon registrations, after hours networking events, sponsorships, annual meeting registrations, and the list goes on.
The key to successful organizations, in my opinion, is to have a strong working relationship with your Board of Directors. A level of trust must always be present. If you don’t have it, you have nothing.
As CEO, you were hired by the Board to implement the policies that were decided by the Board. Take that charge seriously.
That’s your responsibility!
