Preparing for the 2026 Board Nominating Process: What to Expect

by Roxie Strohmenger, CCXP

Serving on CXPA’s Nominating Committee is one of the most rewarding—and challenging—roles among my many CXPA volunteer roles. It is rewarding because it provides a firsthand look at the talent and passion across our CX community. It is challenging because there is a limited number of slots available for Board appointments. This blog post offers a behind-the-scenes look at how we select Board nominees. It also shares that we are currently seeking self-nominations to serve on the CXPA Nominating Committee. I hope that it helps you consider taking a step to become further involved in helping to advance our association. (If you are interested in applying for that, please see the details later in this article. Board and volunteer nominations will begin in late August.)

CXPA uses a structured nominating slate process — outlined in our bylaws — to ensure that CXPA is member-led and broadly representative, in contrast to models where Board members are appointed directly by leadership. In this process, there is a public call for self-nomination, a balanced nominating committee of members-at-large and current board members, and a final member vote on the proposed slate.

The initial application, used across many CXPA volunteer roles, asks: Why would you like to serve as a CXPA or CCXP volunteer?

·        What unique skills or perspectives would you bring as a CXPA volunteer?

·        How would your background, knowledge and skills contribute to progress toward CXPA’s long-term goals?

The Nominating Committee evaluates applicants based on the information provided, rather than personal knowledge or relationships. Strong applications address CXPA values and business goals, detail the applicant’s passion and leadership (including previous CXPA involvement), and show an understanding of the role and a commitment to collaborative leadership. “Red flags” include a lack of CXPA understanding or experience, or a narrow commitment to a particular cause or self-interest. The Nominating Committee also considers the applicant’s professional role and geographic region to ensure a finalist slate that offers diverse representation, satisfies bylaws requirements, and advances CXPA’s business goals. Typically, twice as many finalists are shortlisted as there are anticipated Board openings, with similar processes used for other leadership roles.

Board finalists will be asked to submit a three to four-minute video responding to a common prompt. For example, in 2025, the question focused on how candidates would help lead CXPA’s growth and strategic direction. Strong responses demonstrated clarity, commitment, and collaboration. Common pitfalls include exceeding time limits, repeating the written application, or proposing activities outside the Board’s governance scope. (e.g., suggesting specific individual tactics that have not been developed in concert with the Board strategy process).

The Nominating Committee reviews both application materials and video responses to recommend a balanced, high-impact slate, considering candidate rankings and the overall composition of the board across industry, region, and professional and personal characteristics.

The 2026 Nominating Committee will be led by 2025 Vice Chair Jayalakshmi Sudarshan, CCXP, assisted by 2025 Treasurer Benjamin Easaw, CCXP, and Board Director Eytan Hattem, CCXP. We are currently seeking three additional members for the Nominating Committee. Every CXPA member in good standing is eligible to serve.  If you are interested in this opportunity to be involved in the selection process as outlined above, please send an email indicating your willingness to serve to our CEO at greg@cxpaglobal.org by July 25. (Please note that members of the nominating committee are not eligible for Board service or Honorary Member consideration during their service.)

The 2026 Board and Volunteer Application process will open in late August, with applications accepted through early October. Candidate evaluation will occur during October and November, with service terms ranging from one to three years, commencing January 1, 2026.