Shields Meneley Partners
“There is no shame in recognizing that you have given it your all, and it’s time to step down,” says Gail Meneley, co-founder and advisor at Shields Meneley Partners. Raphael Koh/Unsplash

Former NSW Liberal leader John Brogden resigned a week ago as chief executive of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, citing depression. The executive has been battling with depression, but he is now focused on getting better.

When executives opt for a career transition or a change of path, the company must figure out a way to let them go without losing its sense of direction and focus. For the departing executive’s part, self-awareness and empathy must prevail to develop a sound decision.

“There is no shame in recognizing that you have given it your all, and it’s time to step down,” said Gail Meneley, co-founder and advisor at Shields Meneley Partners, the leading advisory firm for top executives in career transitions.

“You can try to fake commitment and enthusiasm for the sake of your team, but they will quickly see through it. The best option is to step down when you feel it’s time, preserve the strong relationships and stable foundations you’ve built over the years, and allow the next person to advance. Our careers and our professional selves are constantly evolving. It’s the founding idea behind Shields Meneley Partners. Don’t force yourself to stagnate in a position that’s no longer a fit; find the next great passion!”

Shields Meneley Partners helps executives and companies in matters relating to career paths and organisational structure. It specialises in assisting senior leaders and board members in crucial decision-making processes.

In a statement, AICD Chairman Elizabeth Proust said that Brogden has been successful at “increasing membership and raising AICD's advocacy profile.” She added, "As CEO, John has driven the creation and initiation of a number of important policy and member service developments."

For his part, company director Kevin McCann said that Brogden had been “a big contributor to AICD initiatives in corporate governance policy development.”

Brogden’s wife Lucy had said in a Lifeline event in Sydney that Brogden “is on the mend and we expect to see him out and about soon.” She added at the annual Lifeline fundraising Chairman's Lunch that she is watching Brogden’s recovery “with admiration and love.”

Brogden had been managing director and CEO of the AICD since January 2015, reports AFR. He is believed to be staying put as chairman of Lifeline Australia and UrbanGrowth NSW.

Executives leave companies for various reasons. For some, personal health issues figure in the situation. HuffPost’s Mark Wayman lists down a couple of other reasons.