Passing the Baton: An analysis of executive leadership transitions in small and mid-sized nonprofit organizations

This study examines how and why leadership transitions fail. The nonprofit sector has examined this topic for more than three decades, but research shows that small and mid-sized arts organizations remain unprepared for the inevitable leadership transitions of the future. Building on existing literature, consultants and nonprofit professionals weigh in on the intricacies of transitions in today’s nonprofit environment, how for-profit practices translate to the nonprofit sector, and best practices for involving other stakeholders in the process. Together, these findings suggest that a shift in attitude is needed in the nonprofit sector for organizations to approach these situations with appropriate care and secure the adequate financial resources.