In this conversation with EdUp Provost host Dr. Gregor Thuswaldner, Dr. Joan F. Lorden discusses her chapter, “At the Pleasure of the President,” from The Chief Academic Officer’s Handbook: A Provost’s Guide to Visionary Leadership (Johns Hopkins University Press, 2025). She offers valuable insights into the provost’s relationship with the president, emphasizing the importance of trust, communication, and balancing faculty needs with institutional priorities. Dr. Lorden explores strategies for building strong presidential partnerships, managing crises, preparing for leadership transitions, and navigating the complexities of fostering institutional growth and transformation. Takeaways A newly hired provost should start with a reservoir of trust. Honesty and transparency are crucial in building relationships. Understanding the institution's culture is key for success. Provosts must balance confidentiality with transparency to faculty. Explaining funding streams to faculty is essential for trust.