How to Overcome a President Blocking a Non-Financial Conflict-of-Interest Policy

After three decades of service, a nonprofit volunteer is helping a committee create a conflict-of-interest policy that addresses non-financial conflicts, which are common in the organization’s self-governing structure. The board president, also a volunteer and ally of a rule-breaker, refuses to consider the proposal and repeatedly distorts its content. The advice column recommends reviewing the organization’s bylaws to see if a committee vote can advance the draft to the full board, ensuring the president’s vote carries no extra weight.

It also suggests using other officers to act when the president is absent, citing one outlet Council of Nonprofits’ guidance and potential state legal requirements. If internal pressure proves insufficient, the column advises hiring an external consultant to facilitate discussion and help the board understand the policy’s importance.