Board Facilitation/Management Retreats

A New Direction for an Organization in Turmoil

Organizational Challenge:
Lisa regularly works with boards of directors to help clarify mission and strategy during retreats and planning sessions. In one memorable case, a management upheaval happened on the morning preceding her planned session. The executive director had resigned and many of the volunteer board members were ready to resign as well.

Solution:
As the facilitator of this emotionally charged board, Lisa completely shifted her original agenda to a crisis intervention. By partnering with the board president, she was able to calm the various stakeholders. This provided the foundation for more productive sessions over the next two days.

Outcome:
The outcome was obviously quite different than what she had prepared for. Lisa’s deep relationship and knowledge of the interpersonal dynamics resulted in a successful facilitation. She served the board meaningfully and effectively at a pivotal time of crisis. I think we should add some more tangible outcomes if possible.