1. Ability To Chair Meetings

The Executive Committee meets monthly, but they make decisions that define the organization's destiny for years to come. The ability to manage those meetings effectively is key. Chairmen must ensure that all the club is discussed in line with the agenda, that everyone’s views are heard and discussed, that clear decisions are reached and accepted and that they follow up to make sure agreed actions are carried out in line with Executive decisions.

2. Understanding The GOP

An exceptional Chairperson understands the GOP, its culture, people and processes. They also understand the wider politics and prepare the Club for all eventualities. Experienced Chairmen can quickly identify opportunities and potential risks facing their organization. They can engage with their Committees at an early stage to discuss potential courses of action.

3. Ability To Influence Others, Without Dominating

A good Chairperson is responsible for ensuring that all Executive members are using their own unique skills for the good of the organization. They must ensure all Club members contribute to discussions and the decision-making process and they must allow each Club member to express their views, even if they conflict with the Chairperson’s view. Developing effective communication with Club members is key. An exceptional Chairperson is careful not to allow their own personalities to dominate. They are willing to be challenged on their own views and enjoy open debate.

4. Strong Personality

The role of the Chairperson is a difficult job. They have ultimate responsibility for Club accomplishments. A good Chairperson gives strength and support to others while being resilient themselves. This requires a strong personality. Even the most experienced and effective Executives can face challenging times and the ability of the Chair to deal with these situations and to bounce back is essential to a Club recovering and moving on.

5. Good Communication

One of the exceptional Chairperson’s secrets of success is effective communication with all Committees. Through effective communication, the Chairperson gains the confidence of their Executives and provides clarity in the Club. The Chairperson’s ability at communicating Club strategy to external stakeholders and giving stakeholders confidence in the Cluby’s future direction will help keep external pressures at bay. They will also stand up to members' pressure, if necessary. An effective Chairperson does not lose sight of his main priority of improving the long-term performance of the club.

Inadequate leadership and governance contributed to the underperformance and failure of major clubs during the political crisis. The role of the Chairperson has become even more important. The current environment places greater responsibility and a higher profile on the Chairperson. Recent events have shown how, when things go wrong, the Chairperson can be first in the firing line.