[Case Study 05] The Unready Successor (Facilitator Guide)

Facilitator Guide

Case Study 05 – The Unready Successor

When does responsibility arrive before readiness—and what does it reveal about leadership, trust, or system design?

When responsibility arrives before readiness.

Case Study 05 – The Unready Successor examines a leadership dilemma in which significant responsibility is entrusted to someone before they have developed the experience, confidence, or support needed to carry it well. As expectations outpace preparation, both the individual and the institution face increasing strain, exposing weaknesses in succession planning, mentorship, and leadership development. This workbook invites readers to explore the relationship between readiness and responsibility, recognize the importance of intentional preparation, and cultivate stewardship practices that enable leadership transitions to strengthen rather than destabilize the organization.