Distinguishing Governance and Management

By Barry S. Bader

“What is the difference between governance and management?” is by far the question that not-for-profit executives and directors ask most often. Effective boards understand the difference between governing and managing; dysfunctional boards do not.

The traditional, easy answer—that the board makes policy and management carries it out—is too simplistic. It offers little practical guidance at a time when fiduciary expectations are rising. Nowadays directors serve on boards to make a difference, not just to be names on the letterhead and donors on a wall. Todayʼs boards must be informed and want to be engaged, both to fulfill their legal obligations and to leverage their time and talent to advise management. But — at what point does appropriate engagement cross the line into running the show?

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