First cohort of new managers complete training program

[img_inline align=”right” src=”http://padnws01.mcmaster.ca/images/CE_managers.jpg” caption=”Graduates of McMaster’s inaugural New Manager Orientation Program. Photo courtesy of Nancy Buschert. “]Graduates of McMaster's inaugural New Manager Orientation Program (NMOP) completed the final program session with improved understanding about University systems and increased confidence in leading people. The five-month pilot program reached its conclusion June 24.

“I absolutely loved this program,” said Sarah Robinson, manager of McMaster's Child Health Research Institute. “After finishing the program, and with the new colleagues and friends I have made, I feel much more confident in my abilities to navigate throughout this system and to lead my team in a positive direction that aligns with the future directions of the University.”

Twenty-three “people managers” from across the University participated in the nine-and-a-half day program that began last January. The program is the University's next evolution of the Leadership Development Program, also known as the Core Competency Program.

“The goal of NMOP is to better enable new managers to 'hit the ground running' by examining key operational questions, establishing a clear understanding of McMaster's expectations around leadership, and dialing in a network of peers to keep the dialogue going,” explained Jason Cole, director of human resources integrated strategies. “The feedback to date indicates NMOP is delivering on its promise.”

NMOP differed from its predecessor by integrating McMaster's six leadership competencies with critical procedural and systems content that new managers need to understand in order to effectively navigate the University.

In addition to skill-building around the six competencies, participants interacted with leaders from around the University, including Human Resources Services, Human Rights & Equity Services, Business Management Services and the Provost and Vice-President (Academic).

“This program has prepared us to be more effective leaders,” said participant Rose Mason, administrator in the Department of Political Science. “The varied sessions have enhanced our ability to build strong and effective teams, develop people and understand our role in contributing toward McMaster's mission and vision.”

NMOP is delivered by the Centre for Continuing Education and is structured as a cohort-based program. Participants attend all sessions together as a group. This delivery model helps to foster relationships across departments and gives individuals a chance to interact with those they may not otherwise meet. The program is funded by Human Resources Services.

“Feedback from this program shows that it filled a huge need for new managers,” said Tracey Taylor-O'Reilly, director of the Centre for Continuing Education. “When I came to the University a number of years ago, all the processes were so different from what I had been used to. This program gives people what they need to be effective in management roles at McMaster.”

An evaluation of the pilot is underway, and details for the next cohort will be released in July. The next offering is expected to begin in October. NMOP is open to members of TMG with direct-reports. For more information, please contact Nancy Buschert, Centre for Continuing Education, at buschen@mcmaster.ca.