Super Director

How many of us have experienced the Board member who wants to control all aspects of the association's operation, from finances to personnel to housekeeping? This "Super Director" just won't accept that there is a division of responsibility in the operation of the community.

So now the question becomes, how do you handle such an individual and keep the association out of trouble? The answer is one that is either found under legal advice or insurance coverage. In the absence of a manager, one Super Director that I encountered volunteered to serve as the interim manager, without compensation. As a Director acting without compensation, this person would not be covered by the association's workers compensation insurance should something happen. On the flip side, if they were to receive compensation, conflict of interest standards would generally necessitate their resignation from the Board.

In the absence of a manager, this Super Director felt that the janitorial and maintenance staff was sadly lacking. Thus, the director could be seen down on hands and knees scrubbing the lobby floor or with toolbox in hand making minor repairs. Again, no workers compensation insurance coverage. Adding to the risk, should a resident slip on the newly scrubbed floors, the association would be liable.

How to Handle the Super Director

How does one handle the Super Directors of the world? You'll need the support of each of the other Directors. They must understand the legal and financial ramifications if they allow this type of behavior to continue. You need to go on record in the minutes and perhaps by letter voicing your disagreement so that you have a paper trail advising all concerned of the consequences. In most cases, this works. In the most extreme cases, the conscientious and risk-adverse management firm may be forced to walk away from the business relationship if all other efforts fail. No matter how well-intentioned, the Super Director can often become a Super Liability.