The importance of structure & governance

Governance is critical to the success of any Employee Resource Group (ERG). Without clear governance structures in place, ERGs may struggle to achieve their objectives or have difficulty building credibility within the organization. Effective governance helps ensure that the group is driven by objectives that represent the views of its members and creates change and improvements that benefit the organization and its employees.

One of the most important aspects of ERG governance is to establish clear objectives and a strategic plan that aligns with the organization's overall goals and values. The governance structure should be designed to ensure that the group's efforts and initiatives are aligned with the needs of the organization and its employees, and that they are being executed in a way that is measurable and accountable.

There are many different governance structures that can be used for ERGs, but some common examples include a steering committee, executive sponsor, or advisory board. The steering committee is typically made up of representatives from different departments within the organization and is responsible for providing direction and oversight to the ERG. The executive sponsor is a senior leader within the organization who champions the ERG and provides strategic guidance and support. An advisory board can be made up of external stakeholders who provide feedback and advice on the group's activities and initiatives.

To ensure that the governance structure is embedded successfully, it's important to have a regular review process to assess the group's progress and ensure that it remains aligned with the organization's goals and values. This review process should include senior sponsorship and accountability, as well as ongoing communication and engagement with members to ensure that their needs and perspectives are being heard and acted upon.

Finally, it's important to establish clear roles and responsibilities for all members of the ERG, as well as guidelines for decision-making, communication, and conflict resolution. This can help ensure that the group operates smoothly and effectively, and that all members are empowered to contribute to the success of the group.

In summary, effective governance is essential to the success of an Employee Resource Group. By establishing clear objectives, a strategic plan, and a governance structure that aligns with the needs of the organization and its employees, ERGs can create meaningful change and improvements while providing valuable insights into the lived experience of its members. With the right governance structure in place, ERGs can become a powerful force for positive change within organizations and society at large.