Deputies (aka Assistant Director, Associate Director, etc.) are in a unique position in their organizations. They are close to the top, so they are privy to conversations about important big picture and external matters. At the same time, they have closer contact than CEOs do, to the staff and day-to-day operations. In addition, although they may have line responsibilities for particular functions, they also operate across functions.
It is this fluidityvertical and horizontal, internal and externalthat enables deputies to see the organization as no one else can.
The challenge for deputies is to take advantage of this unique role, gain the skills and confidence they need, and lead their organizations through dramatic change.
A Deputy Directors' Roundtable is a small group of deputy directors (aka assistant directors, associate directors, senior vice presidents, etc) who communicate regularly to help one another solve problems and improve their museums.
Join a Deputy's Roundtable
The Deputy's Handbook is a downloadable eBook that offers guidance for those who hold the number two position in nonprofit organizations.
Management Briefings: These management briefings are especially helpful for deputies.
Leadership
The Vertical Dimension: Strategic Alignment
The Horizontal Dimension: Integration of Functions and People
The Internal Dimension: Culture and Systems
The External Dimension: Constituents and Community