Ask a Nonprofit Expert

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January 22, 2026

Welcome back to Ask a Nonprofit Expert, the nonprofit sector’s go-to advice column where seasoned nonprofit leaders offer advice and answers about how to build thriving, equitable organizations.

In today’s issue, Jan Masaoka answers a reader’s question about who should and shouldn’t be involved in executive committee meetings.

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Does the Executive Director Belong in Board Executive Committee Meetings?

By Jan Masaoka

Dear Ask a Nonprofit Expert,

Does the executive director belong in board executive committee meetings?

Sincerely,

Ethically Concerned

Dear Ethically Concerned,

This question manages to convey a lot of frustration in just a few words. I’m guessing you are either an executive director or a board member who is not satisfied with how your organization currently answers this question.

The good news is that this tension underlies an unglamorous but important truth: It depends on the situation.

Let’s take a step back for a moment.

First, it will be helpful to split your question into two.
1. Should the executive director be a member of the board executive committee?
Answer: No
2. Should the executive director attend meetings of the executive committee?
Answer: Usually, but not always
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Ask a Nonprofit Expert is the sector’s go-to advice column by civic leaders, for nonprofit readers. In this new series, NPQ Leading Edge members can submit pressing questions about navigating nonprofit challenges. Our cohort of seasoned nonprofit leaders will publish thoughtful, actionable answers to pressing organizational challenges and leadership dilemmas. Ready to get unstuck? Submit your question anonymously here ([link removed]) !

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