Board of Directors Orientation

How has this idea enhanced your club's operation, etc.?

We do a 2-day Board Orientation for new board members. This Orientation acts as an information session where the new board members learn what to expect from us as a leadership team. How will they receive information, and what should they expect to receive? This helps to set up the governance model that we have here at the club, which is that the board sets the direction and course so that we, as staff, can take the club in that direction with our day-to-day work.

The new board member will meet with our General Manager, Controller, and membership director on the first day as those have a lot more detailed information that the board members need to know. The second day is usually a couple of weeks after the first. The board member will meet with every department head or department representative. At this time, the department head will discuss the department's current operations, challenges, and goals. They will also establish a personal relationships with those on the board of directors. This helps information flow back and forth and establishes a level of trust between both parties.

How was this idea implemented, and what have been the club members' reactions?

This idea came to the club 11 years ago with our General Manager. This idea has hugely impacted the board's understanding of the business model and what we, as managers, do for the club. This has led to a long culture of growth and stability amongst the club's leadership due to a more stable and sustainable governance model.