United Wrong Way

Big news out of Charlotte. Well, besides the rain. The United Way of Central Carolinas called for the resignation of CEO Gloria Pace King. Ms. King apparently makes $1.2 million annually.

Calling all hypocrites.

I won't be calling Ms. King because she is the victim of public relations nightmare. The hypocrites are on the board of the United Way. These people are executives at Wachovia, Bank of America, Ernst & Young, Merrill Lynch and many other companies. What do they make? Now, before you start barking, I understand that being an executive at a large company is a difficult job and their decisions affect what happens to millions of dollars. Guess who fits that description? Gloria Pace King.

While it is perfectly acceptable to be outraged that a CEO of a non-profit makes that much money, understand why they do. You must be a skilled and savvy business-person to hold such a title. To attract top level people to run your organization, you have to pay them accordingly.

Of course, in a perfect world, the right person would take this job out of the kindness of their heart. But, in a perfect world, those on the board would pay attention to the board they serve on. But, this is the real world. Board members are serving their own public relations self-interest. An executive from a major company serves on the Board of Directors of the United Way to make their company and their self look good.

What makes this story particularly interesting is the public backlash. Apparently, many are none to happy with the tactics of the United Way and this gives them the opportunity to pounce.

Bottom Line? If the CEO goes, so should the rest of the Board of Directors. Also, if you want to help? Pay attention to where your money and time goes.

Rabbit