The New For Purpose CEO

Recruiting a CEO in the not-for-profit and for-purpose sector is an important Board decision and yet for many leaders, the process can seem full of unspoken rules.In this episode of The NFP CEO, Michelle and Danielle are joined by Rachael McLennan, co-founder of People for Purpose, to demystify how executive recruitment actually works in the social impact sector - from board expectations and search processes to interviews, psychometrics, salary conversations and the role of AI in applications.What you’ll learn in this episode :The real difference between recruitment and executive search in CEO appointmentsHow CEOs get hired for roles that are never advertisedWhat boards look for when choosing their next CEOThe red flags and green flags recruiters see in CEO applicationsHow to use AI when applying for senior leadership rolesWhat the CEO recruitment process typically involves from start to finishWhy culture fit can matter more than capabilityWhen and how salary conversations really happen in the for-purpose sectorHow board experience strengthens your CEO career pathwayWhat’s changing right now in not-for-profit executive recruitmentIf you’re an aspiring CEO, a current executive thinking about your next move, or a board member preparing for a leadership transition, this episode is essential listening.GUEST:Rachael McLennan from Homepage - People for PurposeConnect with us:LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedInWebsite: thenfpceo.com.auMichelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedInDanielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn

Constitutions don’t usually top the list of things CEOs want to talk about, but they should. In this solo episode, Michelle takes a practical, CEO-focused look at constitutions and the provisions that may trip leaders up, especially around AGMs, membership, and board governance.This episode was sparked by multiple conversations with CEOs at the end of 2025 who discovered that their constitutional provisions no longer aligned with how their organisation actually operates. That misalignment can create real risk often at the worst possible moment.This is not legal advice, but it is a walkthrough of what CEOs need to understand, watch for, and actively manage.In this episode, we cover:Why constitutions matter more than you thinkObjects clauses: basic hygieneMembership: where things get messy fastDisputes and disciplinary provisionsAGMs: the hidden trapsBoard elections and director appointmentsBoard composition and structureDirector terms, rotation, and exitsPayments, alternates, and delegationChanging the constitutionAs a CEO, you don’t need to memorise your constitution but you do need to understand it well enough to spot risk, plan timelines, and avoid preventable governance crises.Connect with us:LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedInWebsite: thenfpceo.com.auMichelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedInDanielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn

How do you hold people to account without damaging trust or becoming the bottleneck? In this episode of The NFP CEO, Michelle and Danielle unpack practical ways CEOs and senior leaders can build a culture of accountability, set clear expectations, and lift performance, without micromanaging or avoiding tough conversations.In this episode, you’ll learn how to:Set up accountability from the start so difficult conversations are easier laterShift from managing tasks to leading for outcomesAvoid micromanagement while still staying across deliveryUse clear guardrails: authority, risk appetite, values and boundariesBuild a “no surprises” culture where issues are raised earlyHold people to account without becoming the problem-solver-in-chiefStop “taking the monkey” and keep accountability with the right personHandle underperformance in a way that strengthens, not weakens, cultureUse accountability as a tool for leadership development, not just complianceCreate consistency across your executive and senior leadership teamsConnect with us:LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedInWebsite: thenfpceo.com.auMichelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedInDanielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn

Starting your first CEO role is never simple and stepping into one with a powerful purpose-driven mission adds an entirely new layer of expectation, and personal growth. In this episode, Michelle and Danielle sit down with Alex Ksugas, CEO of Mojo Crowe to discuss what it really feels like to transition from the corporate world into leading a values-based organisation founded by Ben Crowe. Alex speaks openly about pressure, people-pleasing, decision-making, team culture, and redefining success as a leader. This is a deeply human, practical, and encouraging conversation for any CEO navigating uncertainty, complexity, and the constant visibility of leadership.What We CoverThe Reality of Being a First-Time CEOLeadership Visibility & Human ImpactManaging pressure while remaining authenticWhat it’s like leading an organisation built on someone else’s life’s workDecision-Making, People-Pleasing & Tough CallsLetting go of others’ opinions without losing compassionShifting from fear to curiosity when facing the unknownWhy celebrating small wins protects you and your team from burnoutPerspective-taking as a protective factor for CEO wellbeingGuest: Alex Ksugas, CEO of Mojo • The Perspective CompanyConnect with us:LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedInWebsite: thenfpceo.com.auMichelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedInDanielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn

In this episode of The NFP CEO, Michelle and Danielle unpack the essential steps for purpose CEOs can take at the start of the year to set up 2026 for success. From strategic reviews to leadership rhythm, stakeholder planning, budgeting and personal sustainability, this conversation is a practical roadmap for CEOs who want to lead with intention.What We Cover:How to start the year without carrying last year’s exhaustionReviewing your strategic plan, assumptions and operational progressMapping your calendar, meetings and leadership rhythmReviewing budget performance and preparing early for forecastingFunding acquittals: avoiding mid-year scramblesPlanning stakeholder engagement and relationship managementChoosing your CEO “signature project” for the yearBuilding sustainability: personal commitments, boundaries and holidaysClearing old to-do lists and setting realistic goalsConnect with us:LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedInWebsite: thenfpceo.com.auMichelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedInDanielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn

In this special end-of-year episode, Michelle and Danielle wrap up 2025 with a look at the most downloaded episodes, the hottest topics for new and aspiring CEOs, and the insights listeners told us mattered most. From CEO reporting to board relationships to organisational culture, this episode reveals what resonated deeply with nonprofit leaders across Australia, the United States, New Zealand and beyond.We’re incredibly grateful for your time, feedback and encouragement in 2025. What started over a quick coffee turned into a global community of CEOs and leaders committed to doing good work, better.We’ll see you on 8 January 2026 for more The NFP CEO - Season 2!Connect with us:LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedInWebsite: thenfpceo.com.auMichelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedInDanielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn

When a real crisis hits your not for profit, the first 24 hours are everything. In this episode of The NFP CEO, Michelle and Danielle bring back crisis-communications expert Luke Starr to break down exactly what CEOs can do when things go wrong.  From the moment you realise you’re in trouble, through to stabilising operations, managing staff anxiety, communicating with stakeholders, dealing with regulators and media, and rebuilding trust afterwards. This is a practical, no-fluff, deeply actionable conversation designed to help you lead with confidence when the pressure is on.In this episode, we cover:What to do in the first moments of a crisisEscalation to the boardWhen to start communicating (and when to pause)Legal and contractual obligationsScenario planning before the crisis hitsCommunicating with staff during a crisisStakeholders and client communicationFacing the media (without melting down)Rebuilding trust after the crisisTurning a crisis into an opportunityGuest: Luke Starr, Principal Consultant from Phronesis Consulting: Phronesis | Full service communications digital marketing agency in SydneyLooking for more on crisis management? How to Survive a Crisis by David Omand - Penguin Books AustraliaRelated Episode:Leading Through Crisis: Preparation is what you can control, with Luke StarrConnect with us:LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedInWebsite: thenfpceo.com.auMichelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedInDanielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn

In this episode of The NFP CEO, Michelle and Danielle speak with Dale Cleaver, CEO of Guide Dogs NSW/ACT, one of Australia’s most trusted and recognisable nonprofit brands. This conversation explores what it takes to lead a heritage brand through modernisation, manage cultural transformation, navigate shifting sector expectations, and balance emotional brand equity with the need for innovation.What we cover:1. The Privilege and Pressure of Leading a Trusted Brand2. Culture, Values and Leadership Behaviour3. Innovation, Technology and the Future of Mobility Support4. Inside the Creation of See Way5. Managing Change, Stakeholders and Internal AlignmentThis episode is essential listening for nonprofit CEOs, executives and board members navigating organisational growth, cultural change and brand stewardship. Dale offers practical insights into leading a purpose-driven organisation through modernisation while maintaining trust, authenticity and connection.To learn more:Guide Dogs NSW/ACTSeeWayConnect with us:LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedInWebsite: thenfpceo.com.auMichelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedInDanielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn

In this episode of The NFP CEO, Michelle and Danielle explore the most common challenges CEOs face in managing their relationship with the board. While many boards function well, recurring issues can undermine organisational performance, decision-making and the CEO’s ability to lead effectively. This episode outlines the typical problems, why they occur, and practical steps CEOs can take to improve board dynamics and governance outcomes.Topics and practical solutions to help you, the CEODirectors not reading board papers or coming unpreparedBoards becoming too operational instead of focusing on strategyRepeated questions already addressed in reportsDirectors contacting staff directly and bypassing the CEOAttendance problems, late arrivals and reschedulingBoards resistant to organisational or governance changeA well-functioning board–CEO relationship is essential for strong nonprofit governance. By using the right tools, engaging the Chair, clarifying roles and building consistent processes, CEOs can address common board challenges and strengthen organisational performance.Connect with us:LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedInWebsite: thenfpceo.com.auMichelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedInDanielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn

When a crisis hits, your response as a not-for-profit CEO can define your organisation’s future. In this episode of The NFP CEO, we sit down with Luke Starr from Phronesis Consulting, a crisis communications and reputation management expert with more than two decades of experience helping businesses and NFPs navigate tough moments.Luke shares what every NFP leader needs to know about crisis preparedness, reputation management, and how to lead through uncertainty with confidence and clarity.We cover:Why every not-for-profit needs a crisis communications strategy and why ignoring it is a false economy.The anatomy of a crisis: understanding how risk manifests and how reputation risk can threaten your organisation’s ability to operate.Crisis readiness vs. crisis response: the essential mindset shift for CEOs and boards.Valuing your “reputation capital” — and why goodwill from your community and funders can quickly vanish when trust is broken.Business Continuity Plans (BCP) that includes a reputation and communications strategy.The human side of crisis leadership: managing fear, maintaining trust, and leading with empathy.Guest: Luke Starr, Principal Consultant from Phronesis Consulting: Phronesis | Full service communications digital marketing agency in SydneyConnect with us:LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedInWebsite: thenfpceo.com.auMichelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedInDanielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn

First, congratulations on your CEO appointment!Stepping into a new CEO role in the for-purpose (NFP) sector is exciting and intense. Forget the “first 90 days”, lets focus on your first 30 days that sets you up for leadership success. In this episode, Michelle and Danielle break down exactly what new and aspiring CEOs in the not-for-profit sector need to focus on when they first step into the chair.From building relationships with your board chair and senior team to understanding your funding contracts, financials, risk registers, and culture dynamics. Whether you’re about to start a new CEO role, preparing for your first leadership transition, or coaching someone through theirs, this conversation offers a detailed checklist of what to tackle in your first month.What You’ll LearnHow to prepare before day one, and why your “first day” starts earlier than you thinkThe critical conversations to have with your board chair and executive teamHow to assess culture, capability, and risk in your first monthThe key documents every new CEO must review - from budgets to delegations to complianceWhy stakeholder mapping and understanding your funding ecosystem is essentialManaging pace, expectations, and decision-making when you’re “on a moving train”The importance of self-awareness, communication, and setting leadership tone earlyWho This Episode Is ForNewly appointed CEOs in the NFP or for-purpose sectorAspiring leaders preparing for their first executive roleBoard members or chairs onboarding a new CEOConsultants and advisors supporting leadership transitionsConnect with us:LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedInWebsite: thenfpceo.com.auMichelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedInDanielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn

In this episode of The NFP CEO, hosts Michelle and Danielle unpack the end-of-year get together.Michelle and Danielle explore what it means for a CEO in the for-purpose sector to plan, host, and attend these celebrations thoughtfully, balancing workplace values, staff engagement, and risk management while still having fun and showing genuine appreciation for the team.In this episode, you’ll learn how to:Set the right tone and purpose for your end-of-year event whether it’s a lunch, or evening celebration.Ensure your event reflects your organisation’s values and culture, including inclusivity, safety, and accessibility.Communicate expectations clearly from attendance and alcohol to dress codes and timing.Balance fun and professionalism including how to model appropriate CEO behaviour and avoid awkward work conversations.Manage risk and WHS obligations while keeping the spirit of celebration.Use the event as a relationship-building opportunity especially with frontline or hybrid workers.Collect and act on staff feedback (including from those who didn’t attend) to make future events even better.Connect with us:LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedInWebsite: thenfpceo.com.auMichelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedInDanielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn

In this episode of The NFP CEO, Michelle and Danielle tackle a familiar challenge for many not-for-profit leaders: how to build executive-level skills in your team when you — the CEO barely have a moment to breathe.From balancing limited resources to managing competing priorities, they explore practical, realistic ways to grow leadership and strategic capability across your organization without endless workshops or new budget lines.This is a conversation for CEOs who know they need more “executive thinking” in their teams but can’t afford to clone themselves or hire a full corporate exec structure.The CEO’s Dilemma:Why resource constraints and funding models often leave little room for leadership development and how these impact both the CEO and the organisation's sustainability.From Doing to Leading:How to shift out of “just keeping the balls in the air” and carve out space to identify what skills your team (and you) really need.Fractional Leadership:The benefits of bringing in fractional executives (CFOs, CMOs, CTOs, COOs) to build systems, deliver projects, and transfer skills without adding permanent overheads.“They’re not consultants — they’re part of your team for a defined period, so set them up like they’re one of you.”Building Capacity from Within:Practical, low-cost ways to build your managers’ executive capability.Leadership Mindset:How to model transparency and decision-making so your executives learn how to think strategically, not just what to do.Connect with us:LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedInWebsite: thenfpceo.com.auMichelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedInDanielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn

In this episode of The NFP CEO, Michelle and Danielle take listeners behind the scenes of recruiting and applying for a CEO role in the not-for-profit and for-purpose sectors.Michelle shares her experience supporting an organisation through a CEO recruitment process without using an external recruiter and what made some candidates stand out (and others miss the mark). Together, she and Danielle explore the do’s and don’ts of applying for CEO roles, from crafting a standout cover letter to preparing for the board interview.Whether you’re stepping up into your first CEO role, moving to a new organisation, or sitting on a board overseeing recruitment, this episode is packed with practical insights to help you navigate the CEO hiring process strategically and confidently.What You’ll LearnHow to approach CEO recruitment when your organisation decides not to use a recruiter.Why building a personal connection before you apply can give you an edge.How to stand out with a tailored cover letter and what most applicants get wrong.Why “spray and pray” job applications hurt your professional brand.What boards are really looking for in a CEO - beyond the job description.How to research and prepare for your interview like a pro.The importance of showing your alignment with the organisation’s purpose.Advice on using ChatGPT and AI tools the right way when crafting your application.Related Episodes: CEO Succession PlanningConnect with us:LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedInWebsite: thenfpceo.com.auMichelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedInDanielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn

Policies might not be the most thrilling part of being a CEO, but they’re absolutely essential to running a safe, compliant, and effective not-for-profit. In this episode, Michelle and Danielle unpack the practical side of policy management; how to create a strong policy framework, keep it up to date, and avoid the panic that comes when you realize something’s missing (or written in Times New Roman from 2016!).Whether you’re stepping into a new CEO role or trying to get your policy house in order, this episode gives you a clear roadmap to create, review, and repeat with confidence.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why policy management is a must-do, not a nice-to-do, for every NFP CEOWhere to find reliable policy templates and guidance (ACNC, AICD, Institute of Community Directors)How to build and maintain a policy register that actually worksWhen and how often to review policies and which ones need more frequent updatesHow to involve your team and board committees in policy development and reviewPractical ways to make policies usable, accessible, and embedded in daily practiceThe NFP CEO — helping new and aspiring leaders in the for-purpose sector grow their confidence, sharpen their strategy, and lead with impactConnect with us:LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedInWebsite: thenfpceo.com.auMichelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedInDanielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn

Succession planning for CEOs is an important and often overlooked responsibility. In this episode of The NFP CEO, Michelle and Danielle break down CEO succession planning for not-for-profit organisations, explaining why it matters, what it really involves, and how CEOs can turn a potentially stressful topic into a strategic advantage.Too often, the first time a board raises the question of succession planning is in the middle of a meeting, sparking panic and confusion. But succession planning doesn’t have to be negative. It’s a critical governance practice that protects your organisation, strengthens leadership continuity, and ensures your mission endures beyond any one person.Michelle and Danielle explore:Why CEO succession planning is a core board responsibility in the NFP sector.How to respond as a CEO when the board raises the issue.Practical steps to align your CEO position description with your organisation’s strategic plan.How to review team structures, delegations and business continuity plans to support leadership transitions.Ways to use succession planning as an opportunity for self-reflection, leadership development and honest conversations with your board.This episode gives NFP leaders and boards a clear framework for CEO succession planning – from updating position descriptions and delegations, to assessing leadership capability and ensuring continuity of operations.If you’re a CEO or board member in the not-for-profit sector looking to strengthen leadership continuity and organisational resilience, this episode will help you move beyond fear to action.Find out more about The NFP CEO and how we support new and aspiring leaders in the for-purpose sector at www.thenfpceo.com.au. Connect with us:LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedInWebsite: thenfpceo.com.auMichelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedInDanielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn

In this episode of The NFP CEO, Michelle and Danielle break down how CEOs and senior leaders can craft briefing papers that actually get read and acted on. If you’ve ever wondered whether to prepare a briefing paper, what to include, or how to structure it so your board or committee can make clear, confident decisions — this is your practical guide.Briefing papers don’t have to be long, dull or confusing. Done well, they’re a powerful leadership tool for influencing board decisions, securing funding approvals, gaining strategic input, and preparing your organisation for major initiatives.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeWhen to use a briefing paper vs. your CEO report.The three core purposes of briefing papers: decision, discussion, or noting.How to structure a briefing paper.Tips for writing compelling recommendations and draft board resolutions.How to present options, risks and opportunities — including the often-forgotten “do nothing” option.Why active tone, plain language and minimal jargon matter for busy directors.Perfect ForCEOs, executives and managers in the not-for-profit / for-purpose sector.New and aspiring leaders who’ve never been formally trained in briefing-paper writing.Anyone preparing papers for boards, committees or funders who wants decision-ready content.Related Episodes:The Board Pack - How to Write Effective Briefing PapersThe Board Pack - Structuring Your CEO ReportThe Board Pack - Designing Effective Board Agendas as the CEOConnect with us:LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedInWebsite: thenfpceo.com.auMichelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedInDanielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn

In this episode of The NFP CEO, Michelle and Danielle revisit one of the most common pain points for new and aspiring CEOs - the CEO report. Building on an earlier episode, they dive deeper into what a CEO report should actually look like and share a simple structure that can save time, improve board engagement and make reporting far more effective.Danielle introduces the “three-plus-three” framework, three main headings, each with three sub-headings and explains how she’s adapted it in her own CEO reports with input from board members. Michelle adds insights from her experience on both sides of the board table about how consistency, clarity and narrative make reports easier to read and respond to.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:How to co-design a CEO report framework with your chair or boardWhy a consistent structure improves readability and engagementHow the “three-plus-three” approach works:Financial Performance – your commentary on revenue, cash flow, cost savings or funding issues (not just the numbers)Operational Updates – KPIs, HR metrics, Workplace Health and Safety, stakeholder or member updates, and customer feedbackStrategic Initiatives – progress on your strategic plan, market analysis, risks, legislative change and big picture trendsTips for anticipating board questions and keeping narrative conciseWhy decisions or approvals you’re seeking from the board should be flagged upfrontHow aligning your CEO report with the board agenda can streamline meetings.If you’ve ever wondered how to stop your CEO report from becoming “bigger than Ben Hur,” this episode gives you a clear, adaptable outline you can start using right away.Related Episodes:The Board Pack - How to Write Effective Briefing PapersThe Board Pack - Structuring Your CEO ReportThe Board Pack - Designing Effective Board Agendas as the CEOConnect with us:LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedInWebsite: thenfpceo.com.auMichelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedInDanielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn

If you’re a CEO, you know the board agenda can feel like a mountain of work. In this episode of The NFP CEO Podcast, Michelle and Danielle share their tried-and-tested approach to building a clear, effective board pack and agenda — one that saves time, sets expectations and keeps the discussions focused.They cover:How to work with your Chair to plan the agenda and send papers on timeThe ideal structure for a board meeting:Formalities up front (acknowledgements, attendance, conflicts, minutes)Matters for decision (the high-brain-power items first)Matters for discussion (CEO and finance reports, committee updates)Matters for noting (information only)In-camera sessions and next-meeting detailsWhy lifting decisions out of your CEO report gives your board clarityTips for time-boxing agenda items so discussions stay on trackHow to use your CEO report to highlight, not rehash, key issuesWays to involve committee chairs and staff so ownership and accountability are sharedWhether you’re a first-time CEO or a seasoned leader, this episode will help you shape a predictable, and professional board agenda that gets the decisions you need and gives your board the best of its own expertise.Need support with your board agenda or CEO report? Visit our website or connect with Michelle and Danielle on LinkedIn.Related Episodes:The Board Pack - How to Write Effective Briefing PapersThe Board Pack - Structuring Your CEO ReportThe Board Pack - Designing Effective Board Agendas as the CEOConnect with us:LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedInWebsite: thenfpceo.com.auMichelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedInDanielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn

In this episode of The NFP CEO Podcast, Michelle and Danielle unpack the myths and realities of team-bonding activities in not-for-profit and for-purpose organisations. From strategy days to off-site retreats, icebreakers to “forced fun,” they explore what really strengthens workplace culture and what wastes time and money.Whether you’re a CEO planning your first staff away day, a manager designing a strategic planning session, or a leader grappling with low engagement, you’ll get practical tips on how to make every team activity purposeful, inclusive and worth the investment.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeWhy “forced fun” can backfire and how to avoid it.The difference between team-building and culture-building.How to plan effective off-sites, strategy days and engagement activities.The importance of clear objectives, realistic agendas and respecting staff time.Creative icebreaker ideas that actually work (and the ones to avoid).How physical space, facilitation style and “golden questions” shape participation.Practical examples from Michelle and Danielle’s own experience running not-for-profit strategy days and cross-team collaborations.Connect with us:LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedInWebsite: thenfpceo.com.auMichelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedInDanielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn