Boards can use executive sessions to tackle sensitive matters that require greater privacy and independence of the board. These discussions give participants the freedom to speak freely and publicly without being pressured by public opinions. The article discusses the importance of executive sessions and how they differ from board meetings. It will also provide the best practices to make them successful.
The chair of the meeting begins by welcoming everyone in attendance. The CEO or the board member who is responsible for the agenda will then provide a brief overview of the topic as well as the purpose of the discussion. This helps the board understand the context of the topics that are to be discussed and avoids confusion or miscommunications.
Typically executive sessions are only open to board members and may be scheduled prior to, in the middle of or after the scheduled board meeting. Board Source (formerly known as the National Center for Nonprofit Boards), however, notes that other stakeholders may be invited to an executive session for a period of time or for the entire duration in the event that they require professional advice or present conclusions.
It is important to remember that, just like any other board meeting, executive sessions must be focused on addressing issues for the benefit of the organization. By focusing on the business of the board will ensure that the attendees are active and keep the meeting from becoming overly heated or a place to spread gossip.