What is UpShift?

UpShift is Waller Consulting’s proven framework that guides nonprofits through leadership transitions with clarity, stability, and strategy, ensuring the next chapter is stronger than the last.

Why it Matters

Did you know?

• 70% of ED transitions fail within 18 months.

• Leadership turnover costs nonprofits $50k–$150k in hidden costs.

• Donor confidence and staff morale often drop when leadership changes.

With UpShift, transitions don’t just get managed. They become opportunities to strengthen systems, governance, and mission impact.

The UpShift Framework

Stabilize & Align
Every engagement begins with an in-depth evaluation across six key areas — Finance, Legal, Reputation, Operations, People & Culture, and Governance. From there, we:

• Clarify leadership authority so decisions are clear and consistent.

• Rebuild trust with staff, board, and stakeholders.

• Align the board around its role and responsibilities.

Improve & Plan
Once stability is restored, we focus on strengthening the foundation:

• Strengthen systems and operations to reduce risk and increase efficiency.

• Clarify strategy by identifying key priorities aligned with your mission.

• Re-engage stakeholders to rebuild momentum and confidence in your organization.

Transition & Sustain
Finally, we prepare the way for your next permanent leader:

• Support the onboarding process with a 90-day plan for early wins.

• Provide change management support so staff, board, and stakeholders remain aligned.

• Ensure the transition is more than a handoff — it’s a springboard to long-term success.

Why Us?

UpShift isn’t about filling a seat — it’s about strengthening your organization. Our professional interims bring more than leadership alone; we deliver a team approach that includes governance, HR, and strategy experts. With us, you don’t get a placeholder. You get structure with flexibility, stability with momentum, and a transition that leaves your organization stronger than we found it.