Options for Managers

The Newfoundland and Labrador Managers' Network has been instrumental in the development of an innovative interdepartmental career development program aptly named Options. The program, sponsored by the Newfoundland and Labrador Federal Council, is multi-faceted and encompasses a range of career development alternatives to enhance managers and potential managers learning and development. Over the last two years managers, team leaders, supervisors and aspiring managers are participating and reaping the benefits of these programs. The following provides a brief description of the various Options program components:

Personnel Psychology - Middle Managers' Assessment Centre

In November 2002 and January 2003 approximately 50 managers completed a one-day assessment conducted in St. John's by professional psychologists from the Public Service Commission and trained assessors. These assessment centres identify potential management competencies by identifying and evaluating strengths, weakness, and developmental needs. Following the assessment, participants receive a report and one-on-one feedback sessions with a personnel psychologist to help identify career development needs.

Options Assignment Program

With an assessment complete, managers can apply for an interdepartmental assignment to broaden their experience and gain exposure to other departments. Last year, four candidates were accepted into managerial positions and interviews are currently underway to select applicants for the next round of interdepartmental assignments.

Public Sector Leadership Management Development Program (PSLMDP)

The PSLMDP was designed in partnership with Memorial University's Centre for Management Development, the Province of Newfoundland and Labrador, and the Newfoundland and Labrador Federal Council with input from the Managers' Network. This program allows managers to build upon their current competencies while developing new ones. Established in October 2001, the program saw 175 people enrolled in the first year with approximately 30 managers completing the program. The program comprises 11 core modules and 3 non-core modules based on public sector leadership competencies and submission of an applied learning report on completion of all core modules.

Options Mentoring Program

The Options Mentoring Program was launched in June 2002. Several managers have signed up for the program as mentors and are gaining energy from helping others while broadening their own organizational and personal perspective.

The Options program has been recognized within the federal public service as leading edge and has received national recognition. In December 2002, Karen Taylor, Options Program Coordinator, received the Head of Public Service Award for her dedication and efforts in the development and establishment of Options. In particular, Karen was commended for her initiative in establishing the partnership that led to the development of the Public Sector Leadership and Management Development Program offered through the Memorial University of Newfoundland. This competency-based program is a federal-provincial partnership and a first of its kind in Canada.