Nonprofit founders and succession: how to ensure an effective leadership handover

Abstract

Purpose

The aim of this article was to describe successor types of four nonprofit founders.

Design/methodology/approach

This article uses the previous case study research and participant/nonparticipant observation to illustrate the different nonprofit founder types to prepare for successors.

Findings

Four founder types included destroyer, conscientious, maverick, and controller. Each founder type had several unique characteristics. A common feature across all four types was autocratic control.

Research limitations/implications

Limitations include the generalizability of the findings based on the sample. Recommendations include re-examination of the ways founders approach succession issues.

Practical implications

Founders involved in succession issues can benefit by better understanding the succession process as well as the legacy they leave as a result of their approach to succession based on type.

Originality/value

This article offers new insights into the approaches nonprofit founders take about selecting a successor. Founders considering a successor can determine their type and adjust accordingly to select the best possible replacement for the organization.

Citation

C. Santora, J., C. Sarros, J. and Esposito, M. (2014), "Nonprofit founders and succession: how to ensure an effective leadership handover", Development and Learning in Organizations, Vol. 28 No. 1, pp. 16-19. https://doi.org/10.1108/DLO-09-2013-0072