Joy Doran, Manager Workforce Capability, reflects on the first week of the Senior Leaders in Local Government course for the year.
After months of preparation and coordination, it was incredibly rewarding to see the first block of our Senior Leaders in Local Government programme come to life last week in Te Whanganui-a-Tara Wellington. Over two days, we brought together senior local government leaders from across Aotearoa for the start of a rich and highly engaging four-month journey.
The programme opened with a strong focus on connection, purpose, and the unique leadership context we work in. Facilitated by Dr Paul Wood, the tone was set from the outset, thoughtful, open, and grounded in the real experiences of the people in the room.
Building a cohort
This year’s cohort includes 24 participants from 22 councils, all in senior roles and all bringing different perspectives and challenges. As always, creating space for whakawhanaungatanga and shared understanding was critical.
For me, the connection is the most important part. Very quickly, people realise they’re not alone in what they’re dealing with. That sense of shared experience creates the trust that allows for honest conversations over the coming months.
The timing of the workshop came just days after severe weather events left several regions in a state of emergency. That made travel difficult for some, but despite the disruption almost everyone was able to be there for most of the block. With Paul’s support, the group was able to re-centre, be present, and make the most of the time together, sharing their leadership aspirations as well as the real-world pressures they are navigating.
Democracy as a leadership responsibility
One of the standout sessions was Guardians of Adaptive Democracy with Richard Catherall. Richard challenged the group to think about democracy not as a function that sits somewhere in the organisation, but as something shaped by everyday leadership decisions.
Through scenario-based learning, participants explored how what they prioritise, and what they say yes and no to, can either enable or limit participation in local democracy, and how councils can better reflect the diversity of their communities.
After the workshop, Paul captured the energy of the session perfectly when he posted on LinkedIn:
“Unreal ‘Guardians of Adaptive Democracy’ session with LEGEND Richard Catherall. One of the things I LOVE about facilitating this senior leaders program for Taituarā — Local Government Professionals Aotearoa is working with so many brilliant people in its delivery.”
(Paul and Richard pictured below)
Real-world governance and ethical leadership
Our fireside kōrero with Wendy Walker, Chief Executive of Porirua City Council, gave a practical and honest view of governance in action. Hearing real examples of how she navigates relationships with elected members, while maintaining clarity about the different roles of governance and management, was incredibly valuable for the group.
On the second day, Professor Karin Lasthuizen from Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington led a workshop on ethical leadership. A number of participants told me it was the first time they had received formal training in ethics. There was a strong realisation that ethical leadership isn’t just about responding to major issues, it’s about the signals you send every day and the culture those signals create.
The power of connection
While we are fortunate to work with outstanding facilitators and speakers, the most powerful outcome for me is always the strength of the cohort itself.
The content matters, but the network matters more. These leaders are building relationships they will lean on long after the programme finishes, trusted peers they can call on when they need a sounding board, a different perspective, or support through complex challenges.
With high levels of engagement, open discussion, and a genuine willingness to be challenged, this first block has created a strong foundation for the rest of the programme. I’m excited to see how this group continues to grow over the coming months.
Other opportunities
The Senior Leaders in Local Government programme runs over the next four months and is designed for executive and group-level leaders.
For experienced functional and operational people leaders, our Leaders in Local Government programme still has places available for:
- Te Whanganui-a-Tara Wellington — starting 29 April (only a few spots left)
- Rotorua — starting 24 June
Find out more and register to be part Leaders in Local Government.
