As leaders, we often have to make tough decisions to let people go. It is not pleasant but is necessary for the good of the organization.
I frequently hear managers say that they can’t let someone go who is important to the organization. A manager with a lot of subject matter experience may be useful in the organization, but if they are ineffective in a leadership role, they may be causing more ill will and discontent on the team than the good that their knowledge is providing.
Anyone can be replaced. If your leadership team is causing a toxic environment to exist, they may be driving away your team who perform the day-to-day activities of the organization. You have to ask yourself, “Who is more important – the executive who sits in an office all day or the front-line employees who build relationships with customers, external partners, or donors?”
The answer to this question should guide your decision.