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CAMA recently hosted its first-ever Executive Leadership Program at the Kingbridge Centre from January 23-26, 2024. This transformative program, a vision outlined in CAMA's Board of Directors' new Strategic Plan (2022-2027), brought together 25 Chief Administrative Officers (CAOs) and senior managers from various local governments across Canada.
The program commenced on Tuesday evening with a warm and engaging introductory networking dinner, setting the stage for a collaborative and insightful experience. The diverse group of delegates, eagerly embarked on a journey designed to enrich their professional development and expand their network by learning from experienced CAOs and peers.
Wednesday's sessions began with a welcoming address from CAMA President, Bev Hendry, setting a tone of inspiration and collaboration. The highlight of the day was a keynote presentation by Michael Fenn, a distinguished former Ontario Deputy Minister and CAO, who shared invaluable insights into the multifaceted role of a CAO.
Facilitating the program were seasoned professionals who brought a wealth of experience to the table. Chris MacPherson (a retired CAO, CAMA Past President, and Honourary Member for Life) joined forces with Murray Jamer (retired City Engineer and Deputy CAO), Glen Davies (retired City Manager), and Sheila Bassi-Kellett, City Manager for the City of Yellowknife and CAMA Board Representative for Northwest Territories, Yukon Territory, and Nunavut.
The dynamic facilitators guided the participants through thought-provoking modules covering crucial topics such as Leadership, Human Resources, Strategic Planning, Government, Political Acumen, and Resiliency. The interactive sessions encouraged open dialogue, knowledge sharing, and collaborative problem-solving, fostering a rich learning environment.
The program concluded on Friday with a special presentation by Sheila Bassi-Kellett on the resiliency of a CAO, highlighting the importance of adaptability and perseverance in leadership roles. Each participant had the opportunity to showcase their insights and reflections from the week, contributing to a diverse tapestry of experiences and sharing their own leadership journeys.
CAMA's inaugural Executive Leadership Program not only met but exceeded its objectives, providing a unique platform for CAOs and senior managers to enhance their leadership skills, gain strategic insights, and build lasting connections within the municipal administration community. As CAMA continues to be at the forefront of fostering excellence in local government leadership, the success of this program reaffirms the organization's commitment to shaping the future of municipal administration in Canada.
The 2025 Program will be launched in April 2024!
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