General Sessions

Wednesday, October 25, 2017

Make C.L.E.A.R. Your Path: Create a Professional Road Map

Featured Speaker: Patrick Ibarra, Mejorando Group

What do you see as the future role for the public sector professional when you gaze into your crystal ball? Is the rapidly evolving role for government imminent? What impact will that have on your career? What's your personal brand? Join Patrick Ibarra, a former city manager and since 2002, a national consultant and speaker, as he shares a C.L.E.A.R. approach to navigating the future.
PatrickIbarra
Patrick Ibarra is co-founder and partner of the Mejorando Group, a change and organizational effectiveness consulting firm that brings fresh thinking, innovation, and next practices to help governments succeed in the 21st century. An author and educator, Patrick also has two advanced degrees: a Masters in Public Administration from Arizona State University and a Masters in Human Resources and Organizational Development from the University of San Francisco. 

Thursday, October 26, 2017

Kick-But Solutions: Convert Obstacles into Stepping Stones for Your Success

Featured Speaker: Don Maruska, Entrepreneur, Speaker, Author, and Master Coach

Everyone has aspirations and plans, but obstacles get in our way. Learn how to shift your thinking and actions to that obstacles actually accelerate your results. Learn "kick-but" solutions to the three biggest challenges local government professionals face. Don Maruska, Director of the ICMA Coaching Program, Master Certified Coach, and co-author of "Take Charge of Your Talent: Three Keys to Thriving in  Your Career, Organization, and Life, " will energize you to thrive. 
Don Maruska (pic 2)
Don's personal story is one of learning how to take charge of his talent. He was the first in his family's history to attend college, and he eared a BA magna cum laude from Harvard University. At twenty-two, Don was a legislative assistant in the US Senate and thereafter developed management procedures to implement a national housing program. He subsequently earned an MBA and JD from Stanford University and joined McKinsey & Company, where he led strategy and organization projects for corporations, government agencies, and nonprofits before founding and leading companies. Don's lifelong passions for creativity, translating innovative ideas into practical applications, and bringing out the best in others stimulates his work. His books, keynote speeches, and workshops will guide you to fulfill your hopes in powerful, practical, and profitable ways.

Friday, October 27, 2017

Promoting Learning Agility and "Smart Risks"


Featured Speaker: Dr. Frank Benest, Consultant & Trainer

This interactive session will explore the need to develop learning agility as an indispensable competency for 21st century leaders. Featuring mini-presentations, stories, a critique of a case study, participant exercises, and the following topics: 

  • The very big challenges facing local governments
  • Differentiating technical vs. adaptive challenges
  • Indispensable competencies for 21st century leaders
  • Tips and resources for promoting learning agility and smart risk-taking
Frank Benest
Until August 2008, Dr. Frank Benest served as the City Manager of Palo Alto, California. Frank is a noted consultant and trainer on entrepreneurial government, civic engagement, leadership development, and succession planning. Prior to his appointment in Palo Alto, Frank served as City Manager in Brea and Colton, California. He has a doctorate in management from Brigam Young University; a Masters in Public Administration from California State University, Long Beach; and a Bachelor of Arts degree from Yale University. Frank serves as the Senior Advisor to the International City/County Management Association (ICMA) on Next Generation Initiatives. Frank also chairs the ICMA Coaching Program. Frank is a Past President of the California City Managers Department and past Vice President of the International City/County Management Association. Frank teaches at Stanford University and has been inducted into the National Academy of Public Administration. In 2011, Frank was recognized by ICMA with its Distinguished Career Service Award.