Exploring the Looming Leadership Deficit in the Voluntary and Nonprofit Sector

Summary

Born between 1946 and 1964, baby boomers make up more than 30% of the population and, as a cohort, have more people in the Canadian labour force than any other living generation. As the boomers get set to retire, the labour force is in for a dramatic shift. With over 1.2 million people, or 8% of the labour force, working in 69,000 voluntary and nonprofit organizations across the country, the sector will not be immune to the impending demographic shift. While the boomer exodus will affect positions at all levels, the voluntary and nonprofit sector is especially vulnerable at the leadership level-paid employees who are in management positions with voluntary and nonprofit organizations, including executive directors and other senior managers. This article explores dimensions of the leadership deficit in the voluntary and nonprofit sector and suggests strategies for meeting the challenges ahead.