I am a Senior Association Manager at our association management company (AMC) and work as the Executive Director (ED) for multiple clients. One thing I know for sure is that, regularly, the Chair of each Board changes every year or every second year. When you have multiple Boards, creating [...]
Financial management is everyone’s business. Yet in many associations, financial information is still viewed as the responsibility of the finance team, executive director, or board treasurer. Other board members, staff, and even association members may only see the numbers when a budget needs approval, or financial statements are presented [...]
Every year, client satisfaction surveys offer association management professionals an opportunity to learn what is working, what is not, and where we can improve. Sometimes, however, the most useful insight doesn’t come from the answer to a survey question, but from the question itself. One recent survey asked: “Have [...]
As an association coordinator supporting six different association Boards, I have the unique opportunity to work closely with Board members from a wide range of backgrounds, professions, and life experiences. Through this, I have learned that while technical expertise and industry knowledge are important, the most effective association Boards [...]
Managing vendor invoices is one of the most important responsibilities for an association accounting clerk. While processing an invoice may seem straightforward, accurate and timely invoice management plays a significant role in maintaining financial control, supporting vendors, preparing financial reports, and ensuring an association’s funds are used appropriately. For [...]
One of the greatest strengths of any Board is the collective knowledge, experience, and perspective of its members. Yet that strength is only realized when every director has access to the same information at the same time. Effective governance is not simply about making decisions; it is about making [...]
Internal audit is an independent and objective assurance and consulting function designed to add value and improve an association's operations. As a Board member or volunteer leader, you are entrusted with the fiduciary stewardship of your association's resources, reputation, and mission. Internal audit helps associations achieve their objectives by [...]
Serving on an association's Board is a rewarding way to give back to your profession or community. Whether you're helping shape strategy, overseeing events, or supporting members, one of your most important responsibilities is ensuring the organization's financial health. For many volunteer members, however, budgeting can feel intimidating. Most [...]
In association management, particularly in the accounting department, busy seasons, tight deadlines, and constant attention to detail make time management one of the most valuable skills for accounting professionals. Whether you’re juggling reconciliations, preparing reports, or responding to last-minute requests, how you structure your day can directly affect both [...]
In most associations, the transition from Board chair to past chair happens at the Annual General Meeting (AGM). On paper, it’s straightforward: a motion is passed, officers change, and the new chair steps in, but in practice, it’s one of the most important and fragile governance moments your organization [...]
