Discover
The New For Purpose CEO
The New For Purpose CEO
Author: Michelle Cutler and Danielle Ballantine
Subscribed: 0Played: 4Subscribe
Share
© Copyright 2025 Michelle Cutler and Danielle Ballantine
Description
Ever wondered what happens when CEOs of purpose-driven organisations sit down together for a chat? With 30 years’ of combined experience in the for-purpose space, we knew these conversations should be stored and shared!!
We tackle the real questions: How do you build and sustain a thriving organisational culture? How do you manage relationships with your board and your chair? How do you preserve your peace of mind while carrying the weight of responsibility of being a for-purpose CEO.
For those who are new to the role or eyeing it on the horizon, the importance of a support network cannot be overstated. This is why this podcast was created - to be a valuable source of information and support, offering ideas and insights you can implement in your organisation immediately.
We share the stories and challenges CEOs tell each other when we get together - and chat through how to address issues unique to NFP CEOs in every episode.
Wherever you are in your NPF CEO journey, there’s something here for you. We are about our community supporting each other. Creating more impact and driving better outcomes for the sector and those that we serve is what we are all about.
LINKS
Website: https://thenfpceo.com.au/
This podcast is recorded on country of the Cameraygal and Darramuragal Peoples.
We tackle the real questions: How do you build and sustain a thriving organisational culture? How do you manage relationships with your board and your chair? How do you preserve your peace of mind while carrying the weight of responsibility of being a for-purpose CEO.
For those who are new to the role or eyeing it on the horizon, the importance of a support network cannot be overstated. This is why this podcast was created - to be a valuable source of information and support, offering ideas and insights you can implement in your organisation immediately.
We share the stories and challenges CEOs tell each other when we get together - and chat through how to address issues unique to NFP CEOs in every episode.
Wherever you are in your NPF CEO journey, there’s something here for you. We are about our community supporting each other. Creating more impact and driving better outcomes for the sector and those that we serve is what we are all about.
LINKS
Website: https://thenfpceo.com.au/
This podcast is recorded on country of the Cameraygal and Darramuragal Peoples.
41 Episodes
Reverse
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 SydneyRelated 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
In this episode of The NFP CEO, Danielle and Michelle are joined by Kate Connors , a highly respected psychologist and executive leader with deep expertise in workplace mental health, wellbeing, and coaching for senior leaders. Kate was formerly Chief Mental Health Officer at PwC, providing confidential support to partners nationwide, and has worked with hundreds of executives to build resilience, navigate pressure, and foster psychologically safe workplaces.Together, we explore:Why leaders are people too and the mental health challenges CEOs and executives face, from anxiety and burnout to loneliness and self-doubt.The downward trend in leader wellbeing, and why it often goes unmeasured or unnoticed.Common warning signs for CEOs and executives, from withdrawal and irritability to over-control and micromanagement.Practical strategies leaders can use to stay well, from building a trusted “professional village” to intentionally designing their work and life.Why creating psychologically safe workplaces starts with CEOs role-modelling wellbeing for themselves.How boards, teams, and systems can better support leaders, rather than leaving them to shoulder unrealistic expectations alone.Kate reminds us that leadership is demanding, complex, and human. Supporting leaders’ mental health isn’t just about individual resilience – it’s also about better work design, stronger relationships, and tackling the systems that create unsustainable expectations.This is a must-listen conversation for current and aspiring CEOs who want to lead with courage, clarity, and care for themselves as much as for their teams.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 unpack the CEO’s role in a strategic planning day - a critical moment for setting direction and aligning the board, executive team, and staff.We discuss whether a CEO should also try to facilitate (spoiler: it’s tricky), when to bring in an external facilitator, and how to decide who belongs in the room. You’ll hear practical advice on structuring the day for board engagement, balancing ambition with realistic outcomes, and ensuring the outputs become a usable strategic plan rather than just good intentions.Other highlights include:Choosing the right facilitator: sector knowledge vs fresh perspective.The importance of preparation, agendas, and pre-work.How to capture discussions so strategy decisions don’t get lost.Using strategy days to strengthen board–executive relationships and team culture.If you’re a nonprofit CEO or aspiring leader, this episode will help you run a strategy day that delivers clear priorities, stronger alignment, and practical outcomes.Related Episodes:Making Strategy Days Count - The CEOs RoleThe CEOs Role in Strategic PlanningConnect 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, hosts Michelle and Danielle dive deep into the CEO’s role in strategic planning for not-for-profit and for-purpose organisations. If you’ve ever wondered how much a CEO should be involved—or how to make your next planning session truly effective—this episode is your roadmap.Discover how to:Lead strategic planning in partnership with your board instead of leaving it to chance.Review your current strategic plan to identify what’s still relevant, what’s achieved, and what needs to change.Use sector analysis and environmental scanning to inform strategy in the Australian not-for-profit context.Create measurable and reportable KPIs that drive real outcomes.Bring draft strategic priorities to the board to focus discussion and speed up decision-making.Integrate beneficiary and stakeholder insights into your strategic direction.Whether you’re preparing for your first strategic planning day as a CEO or refreshing your leadership approach, Michelle and Danielle share practical, real-world steps to ensure you walk into the room prepared and leave with a clear, achievable, and well-supported plan.If you want to strengthen governance, align your board and executive team, and deliver a strategy that works in the real world, this episode is for you.Listen now and learn how to set your organisation up for strategic success.Related Episodes:Making Strategy Days Count - The CEOs RoleThe CEOs Role in Strategic PlanningConnect with us:LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedInWebsite: thenfpceo.com.auMichelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedInDanielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn
Many not-for-profit CEOs either have a structured annual performance review… or none at all. In this episode of The NFP CEO, hosts Michelle and Danielle, both experienced NFP leaders share practical, step-by-step advice on how to navigate your CEO performance review from start to finish.You’ll learn:Why CEO performance reviews matter for not-for-profit organisations and good governanceHow to approach your Chair if you’ve never had a formal CEO review processProven ways to set up KPIs using your position description and strategic planStructuring your first CEO review so it’s constructive, fair, and aligned with board expectationsHow to include organisational culture, resilience, and compliance in your performance measuresThe benefits of 360-degree feedback from staff, stakeholders, and partnersWhy ongoing CEO–board feedback is critical for leadership successWhether you’re a new NFP CEO, an aspiring leader, or a board member wanting to improve CEO evaluations, this episode gives you the tools to turn performance reviews into a valuable driver of strategy, alignment, and professional growth.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, we chat with Rachael Cook, CEO of Inclusee, about how her organisation uses a 100% remote workforce to tackle social isolation across Australia. Rachel shares how Inclusee has built a strong culture of trust, connection and inclusion, without a physical office.We explore how remote work, when done with intention, can boost productivity, attract diverse talent, and support wellbeing. Rachael also reveals how Inclusee discovered that 70% of their team is neurodiverse and why that's become one of their biggest strengths.Key Points:Building trust and culture in a remote teamFlexible work as a workforce retention strategyThe truth about remote workforce productivityHow to keep remote teams connected and engagedPractical tips for leading with purpose from anywhereTips for CEOs: how to create connection and community in virtual environmentsThe takeaways:Culture is the new visibility: If you don’t trust your team, it’s not a remote work issue, it’s a culture issue.Connection over location: Employees aren’t returning to the office for the building; they’re returning for connection.Design with intent: From onboarding to communication channels, every process needs to be reimagined in a remote model.Flexibility attracts talent: In sectors like aged care where wages can’t always compete, flexibility and purpose become your strongest recruitment and retention tools.Remote work enables diversity: Inclusee discovered that 70% of their workforce identifies as neurodiverse - a strength uncovered by creating a psychologically safe, remote-first workplace.🔗 Learn more: www.inclusee.org.auRelated Episodes:Beyond the Office. Rethinking Work and LeadershipConnect with us:LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedInWebsite: thenfpceo.com.auMichelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedInDanielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn




