Xan's initial response could be to have a private chat with his Chairperson stating that he feels uncomfortable with the organisation endorsing any political agenda, let alone one that leads to a personal conflict of interest. He could articulate his view that the organisation taking a political stance could well be counterproductive to the aims of the NGO and undermine its future effectiveness overall.

He could request that the Chairperson table the matter at the next board meeting for discussion and ask that a vote be taken.

If this was refused, he could raise the matter at the next board meeting himself, explaining his position and seeking assurances on the NGO’s future political neutrality and requesting a retraction of the endorsement.

In the event that Xan was unable to prevail he may consider his position untenable and resign stating the reasons for his decision and requesting they be recorded.

Ian Leach is the founding Vice President of Rise Coffs Harbour and the Owner of SalesDimension. He is based in Coffs Harbour, NSW, Australia.

That Xan has found out about this endorsement, with no prior communication or request for his input, after publication speaks volumes about the respect between the organisation’s executive leadership team and its board. Only an ED who believes the board to be distant and unengaged would take such a step without first raising the possibility in a conversation with the directors.

Xan should raise this issue during the board’s in camera session after first notifying the Chair that he intends to do so. This public endorsement is a major political risk that was not aligned to the strategic plan and seems to have been taken without board authority. Hopefully the other directors will agree that it is a regrettable lapse of judgement and the chair, with the board’s authority, can raise this with the ED.

If it is the first time the ED has stepped over the bounds of reasonable use of his position, then I would suggest the chair discuss it in a one on one meeting with the ED after the board meeting concludes. If it is something that continues or escalates a trend, then the conversation should take place with the whole board but no other executives present. The ED needs to know that the board are united and resolute that the strategy should not be placed at risk by virtue (or vice) signalling that does not align with a strategic and authorised plan of action.

If the board are not willing to give the ED clear boundaries around what can, and what cannot, be done using delegated powers, then Xan should start searching for another board that governs more effectively.

Julie Garland McLellan is one of Australia’s most internationally acclaimed company directors and board advisors. She is renowned for her practical experience as well as deep governance expertise and qualifications. She is based in Sydney, Australia.

Wow! I understand Xan’s hurt.

Having grown up, living and working in multicultural Australia, I’ve witnessed similar situations many times.

Many first-generation migrants draw strength and identity from living in close-knit cultural communities that provide social support and cultural continuity. Even as they embrace their new country, deep ties to their homeland endure.

In this context, the NFP’s endorsement may be causing Xan to feel shame or face backlash from his community with potential consequences such as marginalisation or demonisation. For his relatives in his birth country the repercussions could be severe.

From a governance perspective, the NFP’s public endorsement of one side in a foreign conflict, without full board consultation, is highly questionable and potentially damaging.

As a board member, Xan should have been included in a decision of such significance. The failure to do so raises serious concerns around governance processes as well as the board’s respect for Xan’s role and contributions.

Beyond Xan’s personal dilemma, the NFP must confront and justify how their making of such an endorsement aligns with their mission. Taking a partisan stance can erode community trust, damage reputation and jeopardise funding.

Xan must raise this for board discussion. By framing the issue around the NFP’s mission, community cohesion and reputational risk, he may help refocus the NFP on its core purpose.

However, if the board remains unwilling to course-correct or if Xan faces conflict with his community or fears for his relatives’ safety, then, despite his love of the NFP’s work with children, resigning from the board and stepping back as a volunteer may be the best course of action.

Richard Sterling is Managing Partner of AltoPartners Australia and specialises in For Purpose and Social Impact organisations. He is also a member of the World Commerce and Contracting Association and the AESC. He is based in Sydney, NSW, Australia.

Xan is in a challenging situation and should approach it thoughtfully. First, he should reflect on his values and goals for being on the board and the impact he wishes to create. Understanding the NFP's perspective is crucial, so he may consider seeking clarification on why the endorsement was made and how it aligns with the organization’s mission.

Open communication is essential. Xan can initiate a private conversation with the executive director (ED) or fellow board members to express his concerns about the endorsement and the lack of consultation. Framing his concerns in terms of organizational alignment may foster a constructive dialogue.

If he feels comfortable, Xan could suggest a board meeting or forum to discuss governance matters, including the endorsement process, allowing for a broader conversation on the NFP’s political stance. Engaging with other board members who might share similar values can provide the support he needs.

Xan should also evaluate whether resigning from the board would limit his ability to contribute positively. If he chooses to stay, he can remain engaged through volunteer activities while advocating for more inclusive decision-making processes.

Ultimately, he must balance his dedication to the organization with his personal values. Whether he stays or steps down, Xan's focus should be on continuing to make a positive impact in the community, particularly in supporting children in their integration and development.

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