311: Leading with Systems: The Secret to Mission-Driven, High-Performing Nonprofits (Kevin Wilkins)

SUMMARY

Special thanks to TowneBank for bringing these conversations to life, and for their commitment to strengthening nonprofit organizations. Learn more about how they can help at TowneBank.com/NonprofitBanking.

Are you so focused on keeping your nonprofit running that you don’t have time to step back and fix the systems holding you back? In episode 311 of Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, organizational expert Kevin Wilkins shares how to break free from these constraints and build a thriving, mission-driven culture. Expert insights reveal why culture is the strongest predictor of success, how to foster collaboration despite competition for funding, and why strategic planning should be adaptable rather than rigid. Discover practical steps to strengthen organizational effectiveness, align people with processes, and implement a plan that doesn’t just sit on a shelf. Explore how stakeholder engagement, accountability structures, and performance management drive long-term impact. Whether leading a small nonprofit or managing complex systems, this discussion provides actionable strategies to maximize resources and create lasting change.

ABOUT KEVIN

Kevin N. Wilkins is the Founder and CEO of Trepwise, a strategy consulting firm dedicated to unlocking the potential of purpose-driven organizations by aligning people, process, and vision. With over 35 years of experience across corporate, nonprofit, and private ventures, Kevin has led Trepwise to support over 700 organizations. Since moving to New Orleans, he has worked with for-profit, nonprofit, and public entities, shaping his vision for thriving communities driven by impactful ideas. A Dartmouth graduate with an MBA from Harvard Business School, Kevin has held executive roles at Procter & Gamble, Fidelity, and State Street Research. He serves on multiple boards and has received many honors, including Louisianian of the Year (2021) and Best Place to Work recognitions for Trepwise. Most recently, Trepwise was named Outstanding Business of the Year (2024) by Best of America Small Business Awards.

EPISODE TOPICS & RESOURCES

• Ready for your next leadership opportunity? Visit our partners at Armstrong McGuire
• Building a StoryBrand by Donald Miller
• Have you gotten Patton’s book Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership: Seven Keys to Advancing Your Career in the Philanthropic Sector – Now available on Audible
• Don’t miss our weekly Thursday Leadership Lens for the latest on nonprofit leadership