The best chief executives are those who constantly stay on top of their boards' priorities. The chief executive should help the board focus on planning. When board members plan for the future of the agency, they are also planning the chief executive's work. It is difficult to be a chief executive and please every board member. Boards traditionally resist change.
Many board members wish to maintain the status quo.
However, a good chief executive will try to find ways to improve operations which often necessitates making changes and creates conflict. A competent chief executive will attempt to make changes gradually. The chief executive who makes budget projections for two to three years is actually preparing the board for changes and new improvements. It will take a year or more to convince the board that changes in services and operations, depending on the particular area, are necessary. Board members must also keep an open mind regarding changes and scrutinize recommendations made by the chief executive.