Decide how to handle an interim or acting president or heir apparent. An obvious heir apparent can limit applicant pools. Set a start date. Committee members should establish a timeline far in advance. Set a preliminary budget.
Searches are more expensive than most boards imagine.
Costs include secretarial support, advertising, travel and lodging, hosting finalists and spouses for campus visits, and moving costs. A search consultant may charge one-third of the president s first year s salary, plus expenses. Make this decision as early in the process as possible. Good candidates will want to know. Review policies on presidential reviews and contracts.