I am the founder of a small non-profit.

Patricia Estabrook

May 29,2021 at 7:46PM UTC

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I am the founder of a small non-profit. After 23 years I am contemplating my retirement in two years. I would like to see the work we have done as an organization continue. One of my employees is interested in becoming second in command and I am tempted to promote her even though she lacks the formal qualifications for the job. On one hand she would be able to continue the vision I have started, on the other hand new thinking might be really valuable. What should I do?

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Lindsey PetersonMay 29,2021 at 8:45PM UTC
If you are worried about formal qualifications can she do a program within Two years to boost that? Or even take a couple trainings or a certificate program.
Or if you take her under your wing, can you teach her what she needs to know?
Patricia EstabrookMay 31,2021 at 7:04PM UTC
Thank you for your response. The person in question has lots of experience with us and can probably do the job. I like her a lot and I just want her to succeed and not to get over her head.
Chre M. Davis, M.S.Ed.May 29,2021 at 8:46PM UTC
Could you bring on two different people into side by side roles? I think it would be important to have a balance there, between old guard/new guard. Once you retire, do you plan to stay involved? Is there a board that also oversees the organization?
Patricia EstabrookMay 31,2021 at 7:03PM UTC
Yes, we have a board, in fact two advisory boards and one fiduciary board. The new hire for program manager will also be hiring a program delivery person who will be the go-to person for day-to-day responsibilities.
Chre M. Davis, M.S.Ed.June 1,2021 at 5:42PM UTC
Stepping away is a big step! Lots of good advice here. Good luck with everything, and rest in the knowledge that you did (and continue to) do good in the world!
AnonymousMay 30,2021 at 2:42AM UTC
Groom this person over the remainder of your tenure. It's a small non-profit so you are wise to consider this person has your vision in her DNA. You can build on that and ensure a certain adherence to your vision and plan for the future.
Valentina Huang, MBA, SHRM-CPMay 30,2021 at 2:17PM UTC
Will the lack of formal qualifications prevent her from succeeding in your role? If yes, then is there a way to help her gain the experience necessary to succeed? If she shares your same vision and has the heart to do the work, I would give her a shot.
Patricia EstabrookMay 31,2021 at 7:07PM UTC
Thank you for your advice. When this woman first applied I was skeptical because I have two Master's degrees and she doesn't even have a BA, but she has shown over several years that she can do what is required and since I'm not leaving immediately anyway I think we will give her a chance to shine.
Caroline, M.S. EdMay 30,2021 at 4:15PM UTC
Have her create a presentation to share with you her vision and ideas to carry on your work and be sure she details what the process would look like.
Patricia EstabrookMay 31,2021 at 7:05PM UTC
Thank you, this is great.
Katrina B.May 30,2021 at 10:37PM UTC
Ask her to put together a multi-year plan to see if she has the chops and vision to carry on your mission for the organization.
Patricia EstabrookMay 31,2021 at 7:05PM UTC
Excellent suggestion!