– The aim of this article was to describe successor types of four nonprofit founders.
– This article uses the previous case study research and participant/nonparticipant observation to illustrate the different nonprofit founder types to prepare for successors.
– Four founder types included destroyer, conscientious, maverick, and controller. Each founder type had several unique characteristics. A common feature across all four types was autocratic control.
– Limitations include the generalizability of the findings based on the sample. Recommendations include re-examination of the ways founders approach succession issues.
– Founders involved in succession issues can benefit by better understanding the succession process as well as the legacy they leave as a result of their approach to succession based on type.
– This article offers new insights into the approaches nonprofit founders take about selecting a successor. Founders considering a successor can determine their type and adjust accordingly to select the best possible replacement for the organization.
