Board of Directors Resignation Letter Samples – Templates

A board of directors resignation letter is a formal letter written to the board by a board member who wishes to resign from their board position.

As a board member looking to resign from the board, you need to know how to write a board resignation letter.

As a member of the board of directors, you are in a position of power where you are responsible for governance, crucial decision making, and proper execution of leadership. However, it would be best to keep in mind that you are still an employee and that the board position has been beneficial to you in many ways. From gaining experience, getting compensated, and having new contacts, being a part of a board of directors is rewarding. Therefore, it is polite and professional for you to use a Board of Directors Resignation Letter when you want to resign from the board position.

Whether leaving your job permanently or temporarily, you need to communicate your resignation plans with the board effectively. You can write down all the details about your resignation and even offer help with replacing you. The best way to handle this is by formally writing a board of directors resignation letter to inform the board of your resignation.

You will need to specify if the resignation is immediate or if it is after some time. This decision will depend on whether you have pending duties and responsibilities that you must accomplish before leaving. This letter is the best way to part ways with the board, and if properly written, it guarantees that the board will not reject your resignation.

Importance

It is crucial to write and submit a board resignation letter to the board when you want to resign from your position due to the following benefits:

• The letter offers a formal way of informing the chair and president of the board of your resignation intentions.
• The board of resignation letter is also an effective way of presenting your reasons for leaving your job of the board.
• The letter is essential as it enables you to give a written notice of the day your resignation will become practical to avoid confusion.
• The board of directors resignation letter is also a professional way of leaving your job and allowing the board to adjust and makes changes regarding your position.

Note: Before you write a board of directors resignation letter, it is vital to request a formal meeting with the board members and inform them about your resignation plans. The best way to handle the meeting is, to be honest about the reason for your resignation and answer all questions correctly. Ensure that the time you choose for the meeting is best for every party involved and always be polite while addressing them.

The board resignation letter usually follows the outline of most resignation letters. Therefore, you can write a properly formatted board of directors resignation letter with those basic steps. Here are the steps you should observe when writing a board of directors resignation letter. First, ensure you include all the mentioned information for a proper resignation letter.

Intent to resign

At the very beginning of your letter, you should start by mentioning your intent to resign. Ensure that the information is clear to the recipient of your letter, who is usually the chairman of the board of directors. This will help to avoid confusion.

For example:

I am writing to inform you that I wish to resign from my board position as an executive director.

Give an end date

You should also provide an end date. This refers to the date you will be resigning from your board position. This information is essential whether you are resigning immediately or after a while. Including the exact date of your resignation will provide the board chairman with enough notice.

For example:

My resignation will be effective from 17^th February 20xx.

Note: As a board member of a nonprofit organization, ensure that you find out the required notice period you should give when resigning from the organization’s bylaws.

Explain why you’re resigning (reason)

The following paragraph of the letter should focus on your reasons for resigning. Explain why you are resigning but in a brief manner. Avoid going into details since this letter should be as short as possible.

For example:

I am resigning from my board position due to a family emergency that I must deal with. Therefore, I have to leave my job and focus on solving the issue at hand.

Say thanks

It would be best to express your gratitude for the chance to serve on the board of directors.Ensure you thank the board and even wish them well as they continue their work without you. Being grateful is a polite and respectful thing that must be included regardless of your reasons for resigning from your job. Remember to show your appreciation as you might get the chance to work with the same board members elsewhere again.

For Example:

I am grateful for the chance to work alongside you and the rest of the board members.

Offer to help

You can also offer to help them with the transition process, especially if your resignation is not immediate and you have the time to do so. This can include guiding the new board member, finishing up pending projects, and any other way you can help out that will not be time-consuming for you.

For Example:

I am available even after my resignation, and I am willing to help you out with any pending assignments and with the training of the new board member.

Closing

The final part of the letter is the closing section. You should use a formal and complimentary close such as “Sincerely” or “Best regards.” Ensure you include a handwritten signature and typed name at the end of the letter.

For Example:

Sincerely,

(Name)
(Signature)

Note: You should have several copies of your board of directors resignation letter made and ensure that each copy has been signed by hand. Apart from giving the chairman of the board your resignation letter, your fellow board members should also receive a copy each. It is best to hand them your resignation letter during your resignation meeting.

Board of Directors Resignation Letter

Here is a board resignation letter template and samples you can use as you write your board of directors resignation letter:

It would be best to have special considerations in mind as you write your board of directors resignation letter. With these tips, you will be able to write a proper and professional resignation letter.

Here are some of the tips that you need to consider:

• Be professional: Ensure that you use a formal business letter format when writing your resignation letter. You will remember to include your address, contact information, and signature in this format. This way, you will remain professional even as you resign.
• Indicate the effective date: when resigning from a board position, it’s vital to indicate when the decision will take effect. For example, you can state that you’re leaving immediately or on a specific date.
• Embrace professionalism: Although most board positions are unpaid, you should consider this resignation as any other formal resignation and accord it the respect it deserves. Use a business letter format for your resonator letter. If you can send a letter, you can pass your resignation message in an email.
• Highlight your reasons for resigning: In your resignation letter, you should briefly highlight why you’re quitting. For example, you may be resigning due to a family emergency, sickness, lack of time, a new job, etc.
• Offer to assist if needed: As you resign from your current board position, you should state that you’re ready to help when required. If you had some unfinished tasks, you should assist in finishing up these projects.
• Thank the institution: use this opportunity to thank your colleagues and the institution for the chance to serve on the board. Embrace a positive tone in your letter.
• Use proper formatting: You should adequately format your letter using the professional formatting style for formal letters. Ensure you use the appropriate font type and font size: Times New Roman, Roboto, Helvetica, or Arial at 10- and 12-point font. These font types and sizes make the letter neat and easier to read. Also, the margin around your document should be one-inch all around. Finally, use the block format instead of the indented format when styling your letter.
• Proofread and edit your letter: Since this is a professional document, ensure that you make and maintain a positive impression. After writing it, always proofread your letter and edit any grammar and spelling mistakes.

It is advisable to find a formal way of announcing your departure from your job once you want to resign in an official setting. As a board of directors member, the best approach is to write a board of directors resignation letter. With this letter, you will be able to formally inform the chairman and other board members of your resignation plans.

A properly written, well-formatted, and edited resignation letter is what you will need to present to the board. This should be done only after you have spoken to the board and informed them of your plans. With this letter, always focus on highlighting your plans to resign and mentioning the reasons for that decision. You can use our board resignation letter template and sample to write your resignation letter.

About This Article

Authored by:

William Lehr

Human Resources Specialist, MS Office Expert

William Lehr combines a profound understanding of human resources with a certified expertise in Microsoft Office, making him a dual asset in any professional setting. With a keen insight into the intricacies of HR, William adeptly manages talent acquisition, employee relations, and organizational development. His Microsoft Office proficiency further amplifies his effectiveness, allowing him to design and implement seamless workflows, reports, and analytical tools. Whether it's optimizing HR processes or crafting efficient MS Office solutions, William's comprehensive skill set ensures that organizational objectives are met with precision and excellence.