Is it Time to Go? Why Your Nonprofit Needs a Succession Plan (Mike Melara)

This episode is brought to you by our friends at Armstrong McGuire & Associates. Check them out for your next career opportunity OR for help finding an interim executive or your next leader.

Succession planning is often an overlooked priority for nonprofit leaders, but its importance can't be overstated. In episode 289 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, we explore the critical difference between succession thinking and formal succession planning, and how the latter can protect your organization during times of leadership transitions with a seasoned leader, Mike Melara. Learn about the "sudden loss of leader" plan, a practical tool to ensure that your nonprofit can smoothly navigate unplanned absences, whether temporary or permanent. You'll also discover actionable steps to engage your board and senior leadership in the succession planning process, helping to reduce anxiety across the organization. Hear how one leader's intentional approach to planning not only prepared his team but also strengthened their leadership capacity for the future.

"A well-crafted succession plan ensures your nonprofit's mission endures, even when leadership transitions are sudden and unexpected."

ABOUT MIKE

Mike Melara is a native of Watertown, New York and CEO of Catholic Charities of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Syracuse, NY. He has a BA from Le Moyne College and an MS from Chapman University. Mr. Melara has over 40 years of experience in not-for-profit and government work, including being a direct service provider, supervisor, and administrator. In his current role, Mr. Melara oversees the day-to-day operations of an $86 million agency, including strategic planning, resource development, budget planning and management, human resources management, public relations, and Board relationships. With a workforce of nearly 1,500 staff, Catholic Charities serves over 150,000 people across the seven counties in the Diocese of Syracuse. In addition, Mr. Melara is the sole operator of MFM Leads, LLC, an executive consultation, leadership coaching and training business. Mr. Melara’s consultation work includes succession planning, organizational assessments, supervisor training and leadership workshops. A wonderful storyteller, Mr. Melara, has a published case study, “The Problem with Christmas” in the Global Jesuit Case Series, which is available to business schools across the United States. 

EPISODE TOPICS & RESOURCES

• Ready for your next leadership opportunity? Visit our partners at Armstrong McGuire
• Leadership in Turbulent Times by Doris Kearns Goodwin
• University of Washington Succession Planning Resources
• Have you gotten Patton’s book Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership: Seven Keys to Advancing Your Career in the Philanthropic Sector – Now available on Audible
• Don’t miss our weekly Thursday Leadership Lens for the latest on nonprofit leadership

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