Individual members may generate any topic they wish for discussion, simply by emailing a question or statement. The agenda for the annual retreat is set similarly, by having members raise issues beforehand.

In addition to the members' contributions, the chair regularly presents practical concepts and tools, and alerts members to relevant books and articles.

Topics may include, but are not limited to, the following:

Your relationship with the CEO.

• How you and the CEO divide responsibilities: internal and external; strategic and tactical.
• Defining authority, responsibility, and accountability.
• How well your style and talents balance the CEO's.
• How you communicate with one another, keep each other informed, earn trust, and address difficult issues between you.
• Getting the CEO to let go.
• Getting the CEO to pay attention.
• Handling complaints about the CEO.

Your relationship with the Board.

• Trustee expectations of you, especially with regards to the CEO's shortcomings.
• CEO expectations of you.
• Ethical issues.

Your relationship with senior management.

• Your role as team leader: leading or managing.
• Running effective meetings.
• Decision making and problem solving techniques.
• CEO driven agenda v. team's agenda.

Your relationship with staff.

• Your special roles: mentor; go-between; bad cop (or good cop); messenger; mediator; facilitator.
• Techniques for managing people and getting results.

Your personal growth and career.

• Why is this job good for you?
• Relieving stress.
• Personal goals and career goals.