Executive Committee Vs Board of Directors

Having an executive committee can help nonprofits who need to complete their work quickly and efficiently. Some boards may have difficulty defining the difference between an executive board and a board.

The executive committee is a group of board members that act as the board’s eyes and ears during meetings and are responsible for handling urgent issues. Typically, they’re made up of between three and seven members.

The executive committee is usually comprised of two members: a vice-chairperson and secretary. The chairperson’s task is to speak for your board and lead the committee. The vice chairperson assists the chairperson and also can serve as a substitute when needed. The secretary keeps the minutes of meetings, a calendar for the committee and ensures everyone has access to committee documents.

The executive committee is a part of the board but still has the power to direct the business. King suggests that boards carefully consider delegating functions to an executive panel, in order to avoid creating a unwelcome”two-tier” power dynamic in which the committee assumes decision-making powers which by statute or constitution are the sole responsibility of the board.

An executive committee could be beneficial for a non-profit, especially in cases where it’s not practical or possible for the board to meet in person with a short notice to discuss urgent issues. The executive committee is a platform for leaders who are close to the organisation via their leadership to take important decisions in areas such as high-level workplace issues and organisational oversight and board development.

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