Will Your Green Program Thrive or Die When Its Champion is Gone?

In October, New Hampshire's state green lodging program manager accepted a position with another organization. I just learned last week that another state green lodging program (will let you know which one when I can) has lost its manager due to budget problems. One has to wonder whether or not the momentum that was built in each of these states will continue or die out. Let's hope the two states manage to find a way to keep their programs growing. I often wonder about the staying power of green initiatives at not only the state green lodging program level but also the company and property level. What happens when, for whatever reason, the green champion up and leaves?

In the case of a state green lodging program or company, the impact can be huge with possibly hundreds of businesses being impacted. Of course the environment suffers as well. Intelligent organizations do not "store" intellectual capital all in one place; they train teams of employees so that if one green champion leaves another can step in seamlessly. Many businesses have succession plans to ensure a smooth transition when a top executive retires or passes on. Why not have a succession plan for your green program?

How vulnerable are you to a total loss of intellectual capital? Emergencies cannot always be avoided. There will be times when your green program will take a hit unexpectedly. If you plan appropriately, however (by having as much as you can documented in writing, for example), you can minimize the negative impact. Leaders are not always easy to find. When you find a good one, do all you can to keep them. And, just in case they leave, be sure to have a good "Plan B." Chances are you are going to need it. Your thoughts?