Having an executive committee can be beneficial for non-profits that need to get work done quickly and efficiently. However, some boards might be confused between an executive committee and a board of directors.
The executive committee is comprised composed of board members, who act as the board’s ears and eyes between meetings, and are accountable for handling urgent issues. They typically consist of 3-7 members.
Typically the executive committee comprises a chairperson https://boardroomsupply.com/the-best-virtual-data-room/ and vice-chairperson, along with an administrator. The job of the chairperson is to lead the committee and to be the voice of the board. The vice-chairperson assists the chairperson in their role and can also stand in should they need to. The secretary keeps minutes of meetings and maintains a calendar of committee meetings and ensures that all committee members have access to documents of the committee.
The executive committee is part of the board but still has the power to direct the business. King advises that a board should be careful when deciding to delegate of its duties to an executive committee, so that it doesn’t create a negative “two-tier” power structure in which the committee has the power to make decisions that, according to the constitution and/or law, are properly the responsibility of the board.
An executive committee can be helpful for a nonprofit particularly when it’s not feasible or even possible for the board to convene in person with a short notice to discuss urgent issues. The executive committee is an opportunity for leaders who are closely connected to the organization via their leadership to take important decisions regarding high-level workplace issues, organisational oversight, and development of the board.