The New For Purpose CEO

Culture rarely breaks overnight - it's a shift that happens slowly and subtly.In this episode of The NFP CEO, we unpack how CEOs can recognise early signs of disengagement, diagnose what’s really driving it, and take practical, leadership-led action to rebuild trust, clarity, and momentum.From navigating funding pressures and reform in the Australian for-purpose sector, to resetting expectations across your leadership team, this episode provides a clear, no-nonsense roadmap for restoring a healthy organisational culture, without superficial fixes.If you’re sensing something is “off” in your organisation but can’t quite prove it yet, this episode is for you.We cover:1. The Moment You realise the Culture Has Shifted2. Culture Is a Leadership System, not a Feeling3. Diagnose Before You Act: What’s Really Driving Disengagement?4. The CEO’s First Job: Restore Clarity and Direction5. Rebuild Trust Through Visible Leadership6. Reset Standards: What You Tolerate Becomes the Culture7. Fix the Leadership Spine First8. Culture Recovery Is About Momentum, Not a Big GestureConnect with us:LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedInWebsite: thenfpceo.com.auMichelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedInDanielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn

This week on The NFP CEO, Michelle and Danielle take a timely look at a major corporate governance case making headlines across Australia: the court judgment involving Star Entertainment Group.The ruling has been described as one of the most significant corporate governance decisions in decades. While the case centres on a large listed company, the implications reach far beyond the corporate sector, including CEOs in not-for-profit and for-purpose organisations.In this episode, Michelle and Danielle unpack the key themes emerging from the judgment and explore what CEOs can learn from it. In particular, the court found that the former Managing Director and CEO, along with the Chief Legal and Risk Officer, breached their duties of care and diligence. Interestingly, the case against the non-executive directors was unsuccessful.So what does that mean for CEOs?Most commentary so far has focused on the responsibilities of directors. But in this conversation, Michelle and Danielle flip the lens and examine what the decision signals for CEOs, especially when it comes to reporting, organisational culture, risk escalation, and the relationship between management and the board.Michelle and Danielle describe this judgment as a “check-in moment” for CEOs. Not a cause for alarm but an opportunity to pause and ask:Are the right risks being escalated?Are reporting systems strong enough?Would the board easily see the most important issues?Is the organisational culture one where problems surface quickly?This discussion reinforces a simple truth: being a CEO carries enormous responsibility and good governance is built not just on processes, but on transparency, curiosity, and culture.Enjoying the podcast?If this episode sparked a new perspective on leadership in the for-purpose sector, share The NFP CEO with a colleague or fellow CEO. Your support helps more leaders build stronger organisation's and create greater impact.To review the judgement: Australian Securities and Investments Commission v Bekier (Liability Judgment) [2026] FCA 196The content in this episode is not to be taken as legal advice. We are not lawyers. CEOs should consider these points thoughtfully and determine what applies to their own organisation.Connect with us:LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedInWebsite: thenfpceo.com.auMichelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedInDanielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn

Supervision meetings are an important leadership tool a CEO has, but often poorly used. Too many become either a work-in-progress checklist or an unfocused catch-up that doesn’t add much value.In this episode of The NFP CEO, Michelle and Danielle unpack how CEOs should structure supervision with their direct reports so that meetings drive clarity, accountability, strategic thinking, and leadership development.They discuss how regular supervision can act as an early warning system for organisational risks, how CEOs can create a culture where issues are raised early, and why these meetings are critical for aligning leaders to the organisation’s strategy.You’ll also hear practical advice on structuring the agenda, setting expectations for preparation, and using supervision conversations to build stronger leadership capability across your organisation.This episode is essential listening for new CEOs, aspiring CEOs, and executive leaders in the for-purpose sector who want to lead high-performing teams without being buried in operational detail.Connect with us:LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedInWebsite: thenfpceo.com.auMichelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedInDanielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn

Andrea has spent more than 20 years working with CEOs across Fortune 500 companies, mid-caps, and high-growth firms in seven countries. A former CEO himself, he has built cross-cultural teams, led organisational transformation, and coached leaders through high-stakes transitions.Host of the globally ranked top 5% podcast, World Class Leaders Show, his work centres on helping CEOs create the rare space to think differently, perform at their peak, and grow into the leader their organisation truly needs.We cover:Why the first 30 days are the “moment of truth” for a new CEOThe importance of defining your leadership identity earlyUnderstanding board expectations and establishing a single source of truthThe framework of Identity, Message & Presence and why alignment builds trustHow inconsistency destroys culture and credibilityThe concept of the Identity Gap — when past success no longer serves youWhy different contexts (crisis, growth, regulation) require different leadership identitiesThe power of early wins in building CEO tractionWhy vulnerability and feedback are essential for peak performanceThis episode will help you think differently about how you show up, and how you lead.Andrea Petrone website and podcast: andrea-petroneConnect with us:LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedInWebsite: thenfpceo.com.auMichelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedInDanielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn

Effective director onboarding is critical for strong governance, productive board relationships, and organisational performance. In this episode, Michelle and Danielle explore how CEOs can play an active role in onboarding new board directors, even when recruitment decisions sit with the board or members.This conversation focuses on practical steps CEOs can take to build clarity and trust early, helping new directors quickly align and understand the organisation’s strategy, risks and operating environment.New directors shape board dynamics immediately. A strong onboarding process helps:Accelerate understanding of organisational context and strategyClarify governance boundaries and communication protocolsReduce unnecessary friction in early board meetingsBuild productive CEO–board relationships from day oneSupport faster, more informed decision-makingEarly CEO involvement ensures new directors gain insight into how the organisation actually operates beyond documents and formal induction materials.Key Topics CoveredClarifying the CEO–Board RelationshipHelping Directors Understand the Operating ContextWalking Through Strategy Governance Expectations and Board ValueIntroducing the Leadership TeamCulture, Clients, and Real-World ExposureTalking About Risk and OpportunityPractical Logistics and Early SupportConnect 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 Rob Barnes, CEO and co-founder of Betty AI, about what artificial intelligence looks like in real-world practice for associations, charities, and for-purpose organisations.If you’re a nonprofit CEO or senior leader wondering where to start with AI, this conversation breaks down practical use cases, strategic thinking, and leadership lessons from the front lines of digital transformation.What you’ll learn in this episodeWhy AI is fundamentally changing how nonprofits manage and use knowledgeHow associations and for-purpose organisations are uniquely positioned to benefit from generative AIPractical examples of AI in advocacy, member engagement, service delivery, and knowledge managementHow AI can increase reach, impact, and operational efficiency — not just productivityGuardrails against AI “hallucinations” and maintaining trust in organisational knowledgeA CEO framework for deciding where to start with AI strategyLessons from launching an AI startup during rapid technological changeGuest: Rob Barnes Co - Founder, Betty AI: Betty Home PageBook referenced in episode: Inside Scoop: The Association Knowledge Cycle DemystifiedConnect 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 unpack what disability-inclusive leadership looks like in practice, and what CEOs can do right now to build confidence, capability and impact.Disability inclusion is often well-intentioned but poorly executed. This episode challenges leaders to move beyond policy and into CEO-led action.In this episode, we explore:Why disability inclusion matters Why disability is not one experience, and why assumptions based on diagnosis failHow inclusive design benefits everyone, not just people with disabilityThe common gaps leaders miss What disability-inclusive leadership looks like at CEO and board levelResources for CEOsHomepage - Australian Disability NetworkGet Skilled Access - Disability Inclusion ConsultancyTwenty Percent Disability Inclusion AdvisoryDisability Leadership InstituteDisability Inclusion @ Work 2024 | Deloitte AustraliaCreating a disability inclusive workplaceConnect with us:LinkedIn: The NFP CEO: Overview | LinkedInWebsite: thenfpceo.com.auMichelle Cutler: Michelle Cutler | LinkedInDanielle Ballantine: Danielle Ballantine | LinkedIn

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