Philosophy

GCSAA adopted a results-based governance system in 2004. As its name suggests, this system is designed to help the association achieve measurable, positive impact for the members.

Based on the premise that the board should define and expect results, not processes, this system relies on written expectations to increase control and accountability while reducing micro-management. Components of the governance system are:

• A Board/CEO Compact that outlines the related but distinct roles, responsibilities and accountabilities of the board of the directors and the CEO. It includes:
  1. Explanation of the board and CEO’s commitment to be a future-oriented source of leadership GCSAA members, partners and other stakeholders.
  2. Description of the board’s job
  3. Description of the CEO’s job
  4. Definition of the relationship between board and staff
  5. Expectations for the board of directors

• A set of strategic indicators that define the specific results that the board wants to achieve in the accomplishing GCSAA’s mission, vision and goals. The CEO reports progress made toward achieving the board’s targets according to a schedule set by the board.

• A set of Policy Parameters that establish clear boundaries for the CEO in several key areas, namely:
  1. Ethics
  2. Human Resources
  3. Fiscal Performance, Financial Planning and Budgeting
  4. Member, Customer and Stakeholder Treatment
  5. Communication with Members
  6. Critical Incidents
  7. Communication with and Support of the Board of Directors
  8. Emergency CEO Succession
  9. CEO Focus

• Compliance with these limitations will be reported to the board at regularly scheduled intervals via CEO reports or external audits, as agreed upon by the board and CEO.

View frequently asked questions about GCSAA’s governance system.