CEO Succession During Turbulent Times, Part 2: Adaptability and Purpose

Change, even when positive, can feel uncomfortable. When our surroundings shift, it’s natural for people to seek out what feels stable and familiar. During leadership transitions in turbulent times, it's understandable that Boards and stakeholders might lean toward what feels “safe.” This instinct is real and human. In executive searches, we might instinctively lean toward candidates with technical expertise or familiarity with complex operations. However, in mission-driven settings, what often distinguishes a capable leader from a transformational one is a strong connection to purpose and the ability to adapt with humility and clarity. When environments change, leaders who stay rooted in mission and remain flexible are the ones who stabilize teams, build trust, and drive organizations forward.

In the first article of this series, I discussed how effective Boards approach executive search by beginning early and redefining what “ready” means. In this piece, I focus on another key truth: mission alignment and adaptability are essential in choosing leaders who can not only withstand change but also influence what happens next.

Prioritize Mission Fit

When Boards of mission-driven organizations focus solely on credentials or experience, they risk missing the most crucial quality of all—fit. The best leaders don’t just manage the mission; they embody it. Mission alignment ensures that decisions, communication, and culture remain consistent with the organization's purpose, even during times of uncertainty or change. It builds trust, maintains focus, and reminds everyone—from the boardroom to the front line—why the work matters.

For many years, zoos were led almost entirely by veterinarians and animal experts. That deep scientific foundation shaped a generation of leaders who embodied the mission at a fundamental level. As the field grew and organizations became more complex, many Boards shifted toward leaders with significant business and operational experience. That change brought important strengths: financial expertise, strategic focus, and an emphasis on scale and sustainability. Over time, however, the industry realized zoos succeed best when led by people who understand both the mission and the business. Operational excellence is essential, but so are the core values—conservation, education, and community engagement. 

At Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, this understanding guided the Board’s search in 2022 for its next Chief Executive Officer. They knew the zoo required a leader who saw it not only as a place where families spend their free time, but also as a force for conservation, learning, and community. They ultimately selected Dr. Luis Padilla, a veterinarian and respected conservation leader dedicated to inspiring people to protect the natural world. Trained as a veterinarian and experienced in animal care and conservation science, he offers the authenticity and credibility that have long defined zoo leadership. At the same time, he approaches the organization with a strategic perspective, focusing on partnerships, guest experience, operational complexity, and long-term relevance.

Under his leadership, Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium has continued to thrive, being voted the #1 zoo in the nation for three consecutive years, the #1 safari park for five years in a row, and the best zoo exhibit for six straight years by the readers of USA Today. All while promoting meaningful conservation efforts and strengthening community connections. The Zoo welcomed rescued spider monkeys into its care, celebrated multiple animal births, and unveiled beautifully redesigned habitats, including the refreshed Hubbard Orangutan Forest. Even as the Zoo continues its urgent conservation work, it is also investing in the future. The 32,000-square-foot Bill and Berniece Grewcock Animal Hospital, set to open in 2026, will enhance veterinary care and prepare the next generation of veterinary leaders.

Ambitious to elevate an already top-tier institution’s guest experience and support increased mission impact, Luis designed a new structure and introduced a groundbreaking C-suite role: Chief Brand and Experience Officer—a reasonably new position in the sector. This trailblazer collaborates with Luis to craft an exceptional guest experience that inspires visitors to become lifelong conservationists and develop customized, ambitious, and mission-aligned revenue management strategies. This role was vital, as nearly 90% of the organization's annual budget relies on earned revenue. The goal was to balance revenue growth, enhance the guest experience, and ensure long-term sustainability to remain competitive. Megan Longo came from the private sector, where she gained expertise in customer-focused leadership, communication, and strategic operations. She has already strengthened her team through thoughtful hiring and strategic promotions in events, marketing, and guest experience. After less than a year and a half, Megan has improved the guest experience by establishing performance metrics, prioritizing team training, and launching new revenue-generating offerings. The future looks promising thanks to Megan’s ability to elevate their brand and guest experience profile for this world-class zoo.

Luis’ appointment brought new energy and clear purpose, leading to a period of meaningful progress. His leadership celebrates what makes the Zoo special while advancing the work in bold, thoughtful ways. He combines operational discipline with a deep respect for the animals and communities he serves, and a genuine belief in the power of connection to create lasting impact.

Test for Adaptability

In my experience, one of the clearest indicators of long-term leadership success is adaptability. Missions evolve, communities change, and new information appears at the least expected times. The answers that worked yesterday won’t always propel us into tomorrow. Leaders who succeed don’t show up believing they already have all the answers. They take time to listen, learn, and understand the organization and the people they serve. They stay curious, steady, and open, especially when the path shifts.

Our search process is designed to reveal these qualities. It’s intentionally layered. Candidates meet with different stakeholders and experience a range of interview styles and conversations. No stage looks exactly like the previous one, and that’s by design. As the process progresses, each interaction provides something new. I observe closely as the dialogue deepens and conditions change. Some leaders stay grounded, ask thoughtful questions, and remain genuinely present. Others tighten up, retreat into what they know, or become defensive when things are unfamiliar. By the end, the picture becomes clear. You see who listens, who learns, and who adjusts with humility and confidence. In my experience, that shares far more about a leader’s potential than any resume ever could.

Lori Carmona’s leadership at YWCA Greater Los Angeles often comes to mind when discussing adaptability. The organization was at a pivotal point and needed someone who could rebuild trust, stabilize systems, and restore faith in the mission from the inside out. Lori stepped in with steadiness and humility. She listened first and sought to understand the community's heart before moving forward. Being a seasoned executive who still chooses to pause, listen, and learn—that is the true sign of adaptability. In a short time, she stabilized operations, strengthened governance by expanding the Board, and reignited trust—not through quick fixes, but through presence, accountability, and genuine collaboration. Under her leadership, the organization continued to deliver vital programs for women, children, seniors, and survivors of violence, while also expanding community initiatives and advocacy efforts that uplift young women of color. The organization expanded its offerings, including Summer Learning Day, which welcomed more than 8,500 children and families. It also enhanced food access partnerships to keep youth nourished outside of school months and advanced advocacy efforts, such as Women Vote, which empowers young women of color to shape civic conversations around economic opportunity, reproductive justice, and safety.

Lori’s work serves as a potent reminder to me: adaptability isn’t about moving quickly but about moving with intentionality. She approached a complex situation with courage and curiosity, and in doing so, helped rebuild and rejuvenate an institution that is deeply important to its community.

As we move forward, I’ll continue to share what I’ve learned from decades of partnering with mission-driven organizations, as well as how effective Boards prepare for, navigate through, and learn from transitions to stay aligned with their purpose.