Practice Test Geeks(CED) Certified Executive Director Practice Test
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Leadership & Strategic Management Flashcards

7 cards from real CED practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.

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  1. Which leadership theory holds that effective leadership depends on matching style to the developmental level of followers?

    Answer: Situational Leadership Theory

    Situational Leadership Theory (Hersey & Blanchard) prescribes directing, coaching, supporting, or delegating based on follower readiness.

  2. A Certified Executive Director is conducting an environmental scan. Which tool systematically examines Political, Economic, Social, Technological, Environmental, and Legal factors?

    Answer: PESTEL Analysis

    PESTEL Analysis is the standard macro-environmental scanning framework examining six external factor categories.

  3. An organization's strategy execution is failing despite a sound strategic plan. The MOST likely root cause is:

    Answer: Poor alignment between strategy, structure, systems, and culture

    Strategy execution fails most often when organizational design elements — structure, systems, people, and culture — are misaligned with strategic priorities.

  4. In the context of nonprofit governance, what is the executive director's PRIMARY responsibility regarding the board of directors?

    Answer: To implement board-approved strategy and keep the board appropriately informed

    The ED serves as the board's operational partner — implementing approved strategy, managing staff, and ensuring the board has information needed to govern effectively.

  5. Which concept describes a leader's ability to understand and manage their own emotions while also recognizing and influencing others' emotions?

    Answer: Emotional Intelligence (EQ)

    Emotional Intelligence (Goleman) encompasses self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy, and social skills — critical for executive leadership.

  6. A strategic alliance differs from a merger in that:

    Answer: Partners in an alliance maintain legal independence while collaborating on specific objectives

    Strategic alliances allow organizations to pursue shared goals while each retains its separate legal identity and governance structure.

  7. When conducting a stakeholder analysis, which stakeholders should receive the MOST active engagement and management?

    Answer: Those with high power and high interest

    High-power, high-interest stakeholders are classified as 'key players' who must be actively managed and engaged in the Power/Interest Grid.