Why CEO succession is more critical than ever -- From checkers to 3-D chess -- Success or failure : the cause and cost -- Whose job is it anyway? -- RHR's essential point of view -- The 10 key dimensions of effective succession -- Establish board ownership, involvement, and oversight -- Set succession timeframes -- Prepare for emergencies -- Align on strategy and profile -- Build the talent pipeline -- Source external talent and manage search firms -- Select the CEO -- Proactively manage the transition -- Measure performance and improve process -- Manage the dynamics in CEO succession -- Epilogue : perspectives on the future.