Is it a Board member telling your staff what time to open the office? Or suggesting you cancel a successful program because they don't like it?

Hey Nonprofit Leader, What’s Keeping You Awake at Night?

Well then, my friend… you might be experiencing a classic case of Board Overreach.

When “Support” Starts to Feel Like “Supervision”

Let me be clear: a Board member asking “How can I help?” is gold. A Board member saying “I told your staff to do XYZ” is a flashing red siren.

Over the years, Executive Directors have whispered to me in hushed tones, “Is it just me, or… is this weird?” Trust your instincts. If you’re feeling micromanaged, undermined, or bypassed—it’s time to check the Governance vs. Operations Matrix (yes, it exists, and yes, I have it ready for you).

In a nutshell:

• The Board governs. It sets the mission, approves the strategic plan, ensures financial accountability, and supervises only one person: the Executive Director.

• The staff, under the leadership of the ED, runs the day-to-day operations—including programs, HR, marketing, facilities, and yes, toilet paper inventory.

  
  

  Yet even with those clear swim lanes, some Board members show up in the locker room with floaties and a whistle.

How Does Overreach Happen?

Most of the time, it’s not malicious. It stems from:

• Confusion about roles (especially with new or former nonprofit leaders)

• A big heart (and a belief they’re “helping”)

• Impatience or a desire to see quick change

• Poor boundaries and lack of onboarding or training

So What’s an ED to Do?

• Educate, don’t scold. Use tools like the Governance vs. Operations Matrix to lead a board-staff discussion about roles.

• Document authority—in job descriptions, org charts, and board policies.

• Set up communication norms. If your staff starts getting texts from Board members, you’ve got a problem.

• Train your staff to use the phrase “That’s something I need to run by the ED.” It’s polite AND redirects the power where it belongs.

• Recruit wisely. Look for Board members who understand governance, not just passion.

And Finally—You Don’t Have to Do This Alone

Working in isolation is not a badge of honor. It's a recipe for burnout, confusion, and board interference. You need community. You need coaching. You need someone to say, “No, you’re not crazy. Yes, that’s overreach.”

That’s where I come in.

Whether you’re looking to clarify roles, train your Board, or just vent for 30 minutes without judgment, I’m here. Let’s create a governance culture that empowers everyone—staff AND Board—to lead with purpose.

Would you like the Governance vs. Operations Matrix? I’ve got it. Want to role-play some “overreach” scenarios with your Board? I do that too. Let’s talk.

Until then, sleep well and remember: Just because they’re passionate doesn’t mean they’re in charge of payroll.