Empowering Effective, Informed, and Ethical Leadership
You’ve joined the Board of Directors. Now what?
This practical guide helps you step confidently into your role offering clear insights on responsibilities, strategy, and leadership. It’s your roadmap from operational tasks to impactful, mission-driven governance.
Core Responsibilities of the Board
Board members are stewards of the mission and strategic direction. Key roles include:
- Mission Fullfillment
- Strategic Direction Setting
- Financial Oversight
- Risk Management
- Policy Development
- Resource Development
- Stakeholder Engagement
- Succession Planning
Role Clarity: Know Your Lane
| Board | Executive | Committees | Staff |
| Set strategy and vision | Interpret vision & lead execution | Execute strategy & report progress | Support execution & advise the board |
| Approve budgets | Manage operations | Preside over meetings | Ensure administrative delivery |
| Fiduciary oversight | Delegate tasks appropriately | Recruit/turnover members | Maintain institutional knowledge |
Stages of Board Evolution
Boards evolve over time. Identify your stage:
Aim to grow toward strategic leadership and away from day-to-day operations.
Legal & Ethical Duties
Duty of Care – Attend meetings, be informed, vote with independent judgment.
Duty of Loyalty – Avoid conflicts of interest, protect confidentiality.
Duty of Obedience – Act within the scope of the association’s mission and authority.
Governance Best Practices
- Make decisions on behalf of the entire membership
- Build a respectful and candid board culture
- Delegate implementation to committees
- Focus on long-term strategy, not operations
- Know when to sunset outdated programs
Confidentiality & Antitrust Awareness
- Treat member lists and internal information as confidential
- Avoid anti-competitive discussions (pricing, market allocation, etc.)
- Ensure compliance policies are more than just words—practice them
Be the Best Board Member
- Read materials and stay informed
- Engage actively—attend events, serve on committees
- Follow through and be reliable
- Ask questions and contribute ideas
- Cultivate relationships and thought leadership within the field
Kellen is a global leader in association management and communications, providing strategic guidance, operational support, and industry insight to over 100 associations worldwide. We help boards lead with clarity, vision, and impact. Want to learn more? Reach out to ngottlieb@kellencompany.com.
