When Leadership Changes Mid-Campaign: How to Stay Steady and Keep Your Capital Campaign on Track

In this episode of All About Capital Campaigns, co-founder Andrea Kihlstedt is joined by senior advisor Jeff Hensley to discuss what to do when leadership shifts in the middle of a capital campaign. From sudden retirements and staff departures to unexpected crises, they share practical ways to keep your campaign moving forward while maintaining confidence among staff, donors, and your board.

Jeff explains why leadership changes are more common than many organizations anticipate—especially in campaigns that stretch across several years—and how to handle them with calm and clarity. He offers insight into the different types of transitions that can occur, from planned retirements to terminations, and how each one affects campaign momentum.

Andrea and Jeff emphasize the importance of transparent communication, both internally and externally. They explore how organizations can reduce anxiety among staff, prevent rumors from spreading, and reinforce confidence by providing clear, consistent updates. For donors, they outline best practices for personalized outreach that shows respect, preserves trust, and reassures them that the mission and impact they care about remain strong.

Listeners will learn:

• How to respond quickly and thoughtfully when key leaders or staff members leave mid-campaign
• The role of the board and executive team in maintaining stability and direction
• When it’s appropriate to pause a campaign—and how to communicate that decision effectively
• Strategies to reassure donors and strengthen relationships during times of change
• How transitions can become opportunities for growth, leadership development, and renewed focus on mission

Jeff also shares encouraging stories of organizations that have come through leadership transitions stronger than before. His calm, grounded perspective provides reassurance for anyone feeling uncertain about managing staff or leadership turnover during a campaign.

Whether your organization is facing a sudden departure, hiring a new leader, or simply preparing for the unexpected, this episode offers practical, experience-based advice for staying steady, maintaining donor confidence, and turning disruption into opportunity.

To connect with a Capital Campaign Pro expert for guidance through your own leadership or campaign challenges, visit capitalcampaignpro.com.