C4: Linking Strategy and Governance (Offered again D4)
Strategic Planning is a common responsibility suggested for all non-profit Boards of Directors. While recognized as an essential element of good governance, the various Strategic Planning processes do not necessarily link to the development of good governance practices and structures. Further, a number of initiatives that seek to improve the effectiveness, accountability and transparency of non-profit Boards do not necessarily reflect the influence that robust Strategic Planning has on the principles, practices and structures of the governing body. In essence, Strategic Planning and Board development are viewed as separate unrelated elements of organizational development. The work shop will present a number of tools and approaches that will demonstrate the intrinsic link between the process of Strategic Planning and the development of good governance practices - each reinforcing the other in one overarching organizational development process. The learning outcomes will include: understanding governance competencies, principles and structures required by an organization that will ensure the success of the Strategic Plan. Two Case studies, practical use of tools and small group discussion will be employed.
John Baker is a Partner and Chief Executive of Aperio. John has an extensive breadth of Executive and Chief Executive experience in the public, private and nonprofit sectors and has a broad background in strategic and business planning. John has been particularly recognized for his work in leadership, multi-organization partnerships and governance. Prior to his work with Aperio, he was the Founding President of Proventus Inc., a for-profit spin off of a nonprofit association, and prior to that the President and CEO of the Ontario Service Safety Alliance. John is also a retired Naval Officer having elected early retirement after 21 years of service in the Canadian Navy. He has a BA in International Studies from the Royal Military College of Canada, has attended the Banff School of Management and The Aresty Institute of Executive Education - Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania. He is a member of the faculty of the Schulich School of Business, York University.
