I’m continuing to explore a series of leadership conversations with nonprofit CEO’s, Executive Directors, and Chief Development Officers across our sector.

In today’s conversation, you’ll hear a discussion with Elaine Streno, Executive Director at Second Harvest Food Bank of East Tennessee. 

With more than 20 years of leadership experience in East Tennessee, Elaine shares great wisdom and insights with us, including:

The importance of humility and how that trait can influence leadership success

Why working in the nonprofit sector shouldn’t mean personally sacrificing 

Understanding that as a leader, you’re always under the microscope, and why that requires deep integrity

How to have difficult conversations with employees without destroying relationships

The importance and value of having strong relationships with your board

Navigating the political and relational differences between front-line and administrative staff

The difficulty of parting ways with long-term employees, and how to have those difficult conversations with care and compassion