Boards utilize executive sessions to tackle sensitive matters that require more respect for privacy and board independence. These discussions give participants the freedom to speak freely and openly without being influenced by public opinion. The article discusses the importance of executive sessions and how they differ from board meetings. It also outlines the best practices to make them successful.
The president of the board or meeting chair opens the meeting by welcoming everyone in attendance. This is followed by an explanation of the purpose and topic of the discussion by the CEO or any other board member who is in charge of the agenda. This allows the board to know the context for the issues to be discussed, and helps to avoid confusion or misinterpretations.
Executive sessions are generally reserved for board members only and can be scheduled either prior to, during or following the board meeting. However, Board Source (formerly the National Center for Nonprofit Boards) notes that other stakeholders, such as the chief executive and select senior staff or professional advisors can be invited to participate in some or all of an executive session if they are required to issue findings or provide professional guidelines.
Like any other board meeting, it’s crucial to remember that executive meetings should focus on things that benefit the business. Focusing on the board’s business will ensure attendees remain engaged and stop the meeting from becoming unnecessarily contentious or a forum for spreading gossip.
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