The purpose of this paper is to improve the transition process for key senior executives.
The paper is based on over 25 years of observations regarding effective and ineffective executive transitions.
The author identifies five critical components of successful executive transition: surface and eliminate false assumptions; appoint a transition coordinator; develop a transition plan with the new executive; develop a transition plan with the executive team; and review the plan and metrics with all stakeholders while making any changes needed. The author also points out important transition milestones to be observed in a successful transition; The new executive should assess and choose his team, assess the new organization, articulate a vision for the future and establish open, two‐way communications.
This paper is of value to C‐level executives responsible for hiring staff, senior HR staff and new executives.
