Navigating the Path to CEO Leadership in the Charity Sector: Insights from Ciara Eastall
Understanding Accidental and Adaptive Leadership

Transitioning to a CEO role in the charity sector can often be an unexpected journey. Ciara Eastell, an esteemed expert in leadership transitions, sheds light on this intricate process as discussed in a recent webinar hosted by Rebecca O’Connor. With a wealth of experience in navigating her path to becoming a CEO, Ciara offers valuable insights into what it means to be an “accidental CEO” and how to thrive as an “adaptive CEO.”

Embracing the Unexpected: Becoming an Accidental CEO

Ciara Eastall’s journey to becoming a CEO of Libraries Unlimited was not a traditional one. With a rich history of working in the public sector, it was austerity measures that led her to write a five-year business plan for a new organisation and subsequently take on the CEO role. This transition from a senior leader in local government to the head of a charity reveals the often unanticipated route many take in the sector.

For those finding themselves as accidental CEOs, Ciara emphasises the importance of understanding the transition’s magnitude. Drawing from her own experiences, she recognises the lack of preparation she had initially, particularly in areas like working with a board of trustees, managing profit and loss, and establishing a new organisational brand.

The Adaptive CEO Toolkit: Building a Foundation for Success

To guide new and aspiring CEOs, Ciara has developed the “Adaptive CEO Toolkit,” a set of resources and strategies crucial for leaders in challenging times.

1. Proactive Transition Support: Acknowledging and planning for the significant transition from a senior leadership role to a CEO is crucial. Boards must recognise this change and support new CEOs through the initial six-month phase, ensuring they have the tools needed to succeed.
2. Building Peer Networks: Establishing a network of trusted peers provides a safe space for sharing challenges and insights. This reduces the isolation often felt in leadership roles and reinforces support structures critical for a CEO’s success.
3. Having a Coach or Sounding Board: Engaging with a coach can be invaluable. It offers CEOs a platform to discuss strategies, refine leadership styles, and gain confidence in their roles. This support is essential, especially when navigating complex HR or strategic challenges.
4. Awareness of Potential Pitfalls: Recognising challenges like the “glass cliff” phenomenon and imposter syndrome can empower CEOs by understanding that these struggles are part of the broader leadership experience.
5. Exploring Different Leadership Models: The emerging model of co-leadership, where two or more individuals share CEO responsibilities, is an innovative approach gaining traction. It can provide opportunities for leadership that might not have been considered previously.
6. Prioritising Self-Care and Wellbeing: Sustainable leadership is not possible without self-care. CEOs must set boundaries and incorporate self-care strategies into their routines to foster resilience and maintain high performance.

Preparing for the Leadership Journey

Becoming a CEO, especially in the charity sector, requires more than just leadership skills; it demands adaptability, strategic planning, and a robust support network. As Ciara Eastall stresses, the leadership journey is both a challenge and a privilege, offering the chance to make a significant impact. For those aspiring to transition into the CEO role, it’s essential to prepare by understanding personal blind spots and continuously developing both hard and soft skills. Investing in self-reflection and seeking out knowledge resources improves the readiness to take on leadership challenges effectively.

In conclusion, while the path to becoming a CEO in the charity sector may be fraught with unexpected turns, embracing adaptability and leveraging supportive frameworks can pave the way for successful leadership. As Ciara Eastall illustrates, with the right tools and mindset, accidental leadership can transform into a rewarding and impactful journey. If you want to learn more about our Aspiring CEO Initiative, reach out to the team at aspiringCEO@starfishsearch.com.