Not for Profit Governance Hand-Book
19 June 2003 at 1:06 pm
The first comprehensive hand-book for board members and executives of Not for Profit organisations in Australia and New Zealand is described as an invaluable guide to effective leadership in an increasingly complex sector.
The Book of the Board: Effective Governance for Non-Profit Organisations, by David Fishel, was written specifically for board members and senior executive officers of NFP organisations in Australia and New Zealand, and the content is based on the situation in those countries.
James Strong, former CEO of Qantas, and currently chairman and member of commercial and non-profit organisations’ boards, including Woolworths Ltd, and the Australia Business Arts Foundation, describes the hand-book as a welcome contribution in this area.
Strong says the recent widely publicised negative examples of corporate governance and boards of directors have brought into public prominence this important function, which is vital to healthy organisations.
He says the more Not for Profit board members are clear about their role, the more effective their leadership will become.
The book explains the purpose of a board, its formal and legal responsibilities, and contribution to organisational effectiveness.
It deals with issues such as strategic planning, risk management, recruitment, people management, marketing, advocacy and fundraising; provides practical resources; and features case-studies and interviews involving 25 Australian and New Zealand organisations.
The author, David Fishel, is Director of Positive Solutions, Brisbane and UK based management, training and research consultants to the cultural and Not for Profit sectors.
He has extensive experience as an executive-level member of staff, board member, chair and consultant for non-profit organisations in Australia and the UK.
Fishel says that in recent years the environment in which many organisations operate has been subject to rapid political, technological and legislative changes.
He says that as a result, expectations of such organisations are higher than in the past and, in many cases, competitive pressures have created entirely new demands on their boards and executives.
The book is intended to support new and experienced board members and to assist the CEO to best harness the board’s energies and abilities.
The Book of the Board, published by The Federation Press is available from leading business bookshops for the recommended retail price of $49.95, or direct from Federation Press.
