Governance & Leadership

CEO Succession: Insights From a Chamber CFO

ACCE News / April 11, 2025

CEO departures, whether planned or unexpected, inevitably bring shifts that affect chamber staff, operations and relationships. Barbara Denny, chief financial officer and vice president of operations at the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber, has navigated several leadership changes and shared her perspective on maintaining stability throughout turnover.

Prioritize Open Communication

The most immediate impact of a CEO transition is often on staff. Changes in leadership can create uncertainty that deflates morale and disrupts workplace dynamics. “Employees may question how their roles and responsibilities will evolve under new leadership,” Denny said. She emphasized that open, ongoing communication is key to keeping staff informed and focused.

Transition Tips:

  • Regularly update staff and acknowledge the stress placed on them.
  • Keep senior leaders informed and encourage them to support their teams.
  • Set up opportunities for the new CEO and staff to connect and build rapport.

Facilitate Effective Onboarding

Denny cited the operational transition as another major factor. Preparing essential background materials—financial reports, program overviews, performance metrics—equips the incoming CEO with fundamental insights into the organization.

If circumstances allow, a transition period with the outgoing CEO can provide invaluable historical context, particularly for complex issues and long-term projects, Denny said. However, she cautioned the optics of an outgoing CEO prolonging their exit.

“While well-intentioned, a departing CEO maintaining a presence at the office after their successor starts can cause confusion and loyalty concerns among staff,” Denny said. “A clean transition where the outgoing CEO remains available as a resource, but not physically present, helps establish clear leadership.”

Transition Tips:

  • Provide structured onboarding with key background materials and priority meetings arranged.
  • Establish a first-year roadmap to align the new CEO and the board of directors.
  • Identify an advisor or mentor to support the incoming CEO.

Maintain Stakeholder Confidence

Chamber members and community partners may have their own concerns during the succession process. A communications plan can reassure stakeholders about leadership continuity and the chamber’s strategic direction. “Conducting a listening tour in the first few months ensures the new CEO gains firsthand insights into the chamber’s strengths, challenges and projects that should be considered to move a community forward,” Denny shared.

Transition Tips:

  • Communicate proactively with members and partners to maintain confidence.
  • Conduct a listening tour with key stakeholders early in the new CEO’s tenure.
  • Engage the board to reassure stakeholders of the new CEO’s alignment with the chamber’s mission.

Embrace the Change

Navigating CEO transitions is complex, but with the right approach, chambers can maintain stability and momentum. But perceptions, both internal and external, play a crucial role in shaping the process. “New leaders will bring new ideas,” Denny explained. “Creating an environment where that is seen as an opportunity is important.”

To pave the way for a smooth transition, it is essential to plan ahead. Leverage these resources from ACCE to prepare your organization for an executive turnover and support a seamless transition for your next CEO.

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