BOARD CHAIRPERSON

The officers of the cooperative are elected from the board of directors for a specified time as outlined by the bylaws. The chair serves as the leader of the board and as such presides at board meetings, manages discussions to lead towards decision making, and signs contracts on behalf of the organization. The chair is often the spokesperson for the board of directors and represents the organization to the larger public. The chair must be perceived as fair and impartial; a good communicator; and results oriented. The chair serves as the liaison between the board and the CEO. They often work together to develop the board meeting agenda. A trusting and respectful relationship between the board chairperson and general manager or CEO is essential for the success of the business.

The Role of the Board Chair (Kenkel, P. Oklahoma State University, 2019)