CEO Transitions and Their Impact on Fundraising

In this episode of The First Day from The Fundraising School, host Bill Stanczykiewicz, Ed.D., sits down with executive search guru Bill Peterson of CarterBaldwin to unpack the high-stakes world of CEO transitions, and their ripple effect on fundraising. Think of it as succession planning with heart, spreadsheets, and maybe a few tissues. Drawing from the recent Compassion International case study, Peterson emphasizes that a successful handoff isn't just about filling a seat; it's about preserving mission momentum, minimizing disruption, and setting the new leader up for a heroic entrance.

Peterson drops some wisdom for both boards and outgoing CEOs, stressing the importance of clear communication, humility, and board engagement. “This is a board-led process,” he says, cautioning against over-reliance on the outgoing CEO, no matter how legendary. And for those veteran leaders? It’s time to channel your inner Zen master and begin the art of letting go. “Great leaders don’t just know when to leave, they help others walk in,” Peterson notes, highlighting the delicate dance of influence without control.

From personalized office redesigns to tear-jerking public ceremonies, the Compassion International story reads like a case study in grace. Peterson shares how outgoing CEO Wes Stafford quite literally made space for his successor Jimmy Miato; moving offices, updating nameplates, even reaching out to Jimmy’s wife to make his new digs feel like home. Meanwhile, Jimmy returned the favor with humility and gratitude, underscoring the importance of honoring legacy while charting a fresh course.

And fundraisers, listen up: donor communication is not optional, it’s vital. Peterson outlines how keeping donors in the loop before, during, and after a leadership change can make or break your fundraising continuity. “Donors love stability,” he reminds us, and stability comes from thoughtful, strategic transition planning. With 14 practical insights from CarterBaldwin’s study and a healthy dose of humanity, this episode is a goldmine for anyone navigating the leadership baton pass, because in fundraising, the handoff might just be your most important move.