The New CEO's Guide: Advice for the First-time, Aspiring, or Current Association Executive

The first days, weeks, even year for a new CEO are critical. There's not really time for on-the-job training. You'll likely walk in the door and confront a host of things--board meeting preparation, forthcoming conference, complex contracts--that have to be dealt with immediately. And, you know what they say about first impressions, right? This initial honeymoon period can set the stage for long-term success or a much earlier departure than what you had in mind.

The New CEO's Guide will help you prepare whether you're a first-time CEO or transitioning to a new organization. Author Beth Brooks, CAE, who has served as CEO for two organizations and counseled many CEOs in her role as president and CEO of the Texas Society of Association Executives, provides experienced-based insights on

• orienting your board to its work
• undertaking the role of CEO
• working with association staff
• tackling financial and legal issues, and more!

Rounding out this resource is a section containing advice from experienced CEOs and a handful of helpful documents such as a sample board agenda, board meeting evaluation form, and sample CEO evaluation.

Beth Brooks, CAE, is the president and CEO of the Texas Society of Association Executives (TSAE). She has worked in the nonprofit arena her entire career spanning more than three decades and has led TSAE since 2002.

Prior to joining TSAE, she worked 10 years for the Texas Dental Association and 10 years with the Texas Pest Control Association. A member of ASAE and the Texas Society of Association Executives for more than 30 years, Beth is a Certified Association Executive (CAE) and is a frequent writer, speaker, facilitator, and consultant for association professionals and their boards. She understands the relationship between elected leaders and the volunteers who agreed to serve with them. But more importantly, she understands the role of paid executives and the staffs who serve them.