The SOLGM Annual Conference will bring together local government officers from around New Zealand to learn and share ideas on how to lead successful change.
“2010 is proving to be year of many changes in local government and while there are still uncertainties around a number of things, we are aiming to provide conference delegates some tools, ideas and knowledge on how to turn these changes to opportunities and bring about positive change in their organisations and communities,” David Smith, Conference Convenor.
The SOLGM Annual Conference is the premier event for local government Chief Executives and managers. This is probably the only event where many of these executives get together to learn, discuss and share their ideas.
“More than the educational sessions, the interaction and networking provide the social learning aspect which brings unique outcomes to overall learning and development,” added David.
This year’s conference boasts high calibre international speakers like Steve Simpson, a leading authority in corporate culture; Steve Donahue, an international best-selling author and adventurer and Amanda Gore, a communications and performance expert.
There is a range of educational sessions that will meet the learning needs of most managers. Professor Natalie Jackson from the Waikato University will talk about ‘Preparing for the Population Ageing’ and Peter Kenyon will share his extensive experience in ‘Creating Healthy, Strong and Successful communities.’
Media veteran, Brian Edwards, will present some tips on how to survive the media. Julie Sloan from Workforce Planning Australia will talk about the emerging need for workforce planning in local authorities.
The conference is also designed for delegates to learn from those at the coal face and leading their own local authorities.
“They say experience is the greatest teacher of all and the ‘Leaders in Action’ series will showcase four Chief Executives who will share their own stories of challenges and successes. Michael Ross, Bob Laing, Glenn Snelgrove and Debra Lawson will be talking about their leadership experiences,” David added.
There will also be some discussion on how the future of local government is shaping up. A panel discussion of Chief Executives will provide thought-provoking insights into what they see local government will be like in 2020.
Another speaker not to miss is the Minister of Local Government Hon Rodney Hide who always delivers a thought provoking address.
“In previous discussions with the Minister, he has signalled his next big thing, after Auckland, is to develop a discussion document on the place and role of local government in our overall governance scene,” added David.
“We are extremely grateful of the support of the many sponsors of this year’s conference. Having the financial contribution from sponsors enabled us to deliver the conference without raising our prices and still bring in high quality international and local speakers,” said David.
The 2010 SOLGM Annual Conference is scheduled on 5-7 September and will be held at the Skyline Gondola and Restaurant in Queenstown. Early bird registration closes on 29 July. For more information, go to www.solgm2010.co.nz
13 July 2010
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