By Connie Rosemont and Daniel Keegan, Senior Search Consultants, Museum Search & Reference
At Museum Search & Reference we are often asked about executive transitions and, in particular, about the onboarding process for new directors. We have found that onboarding is sometimes overlooked by boards and search committees who may assume that their work is done, that the new director will know what to do, whom to meet, and where all the institutional knowledge is stored. We recommend to our clients that, having just completed the new executive-director hire, the board take the steps to ensure it will be a productive and lasting leadership tenure by giving serious attention to an onboarding plan. We developed a whitepaper on onboarding to serve as a process guide and materials checklist for museum boards and new executive directors, and we share it here with trustees nationally.
The first months of a new director’s arrival are arguably the most critical time for ensuring a smooth transition and continued institutional momentum. Museums and boards are wise to ensure that the post-hire onboarding phase is carried out with design, forethought and commitment. We hope that sharing our consultant expertise with you will further this process more widely. We welcome your comments and suggestions.
The first months of a new director’s arrival are arguably the most critical time for ensuring a smooth transition and continued institutional momentum. Museums and boards are wise to ensure that the post-hire onboarding phase is carried out with design, forethought and commitment. We hope that sharing our consultant expertise with you will further this process more widely. We welcome your comments and suggestions.
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