Leadership changes can have a significant impact on an organization. To ensure stability and continued success, it's crucial for pools and programs to develop a succession plan and provide training and opportunities for potential leaders. By planning and implementing a comprehensive transition strategy, organizations can navigate leadership shifts with grace and ensure uninterrupted operations.
Incorporating Members Into Pool Staff Succession
RPA, a public entity pool administration, has found success in hiring individuals from within their pool membership to manage staff changes and successions. By hiring former school district or public entity employees, RPA ensures that new pool staff members have a deep understanding of member cultural norms, and the statutes and regulations impacting pool and member operations.
These individuals also bring valuable experience as members themselves, allowing them to build strong connections with existing and potential members, instill confidence in new member leaders and ease transitions during transformative initiatives. Seasoned pool administrators provide guidance to support the success of newly on-boarded member hires, minimizing disruption and nurturing a resilient succession strategy.
Staff development
RPA recognized the importance of diversifying decision-making input and energizing their organization. They initiated a program to broaden strategic participation and develop future leaders. Junior staff members were given opportunities to participate in discussions on vital issues, evaluate decisions and take on impactful projects beyond their routine responsibilities. This hands-on approach fostered leadership qualities and instilled invaluable skills critical for career advancement. As a result, RPA has seen multiple promotions, including the establishment of a director of operations role and the elevation of a key employee to a division leader, enhancing skills and customer experiences, and paving the way for high-level leadership.
Ask the pool
What unique advantage do pool employees with prior public entity experience bring to the administrative team? Former public entity employees bring an in-depth understanding of statutes, regulations and cultural norms, along with the ability to manage multiple priorities and work effectively with a board.
How does RPA ensure the success of newly hired members? RPA provides support from seasoned pool administrators to help new hires succeed. Knowledgeable teammates are readily accessible to ensure a smooth transition for both the hire and the administrative team.
What key benefits has RPA witnessed by incorporating former members into its administrative team? By hiring members and thoughtfully integrating them, RPA has managed staff changes and successions seamlessly with practically zero disruption.
Conclusion
Maximizing succession planning and staff development is crucial for pool administration. By incorporating members into the staff and providing opportunities for growth and development, organizations can ensure stability, build strong connections with members and nurture future leaders. RPA's success in these areas serves as a valuable example for other pool administrators looking to navigate leadership changes and foster a resilient succession strategy. To learn more about RPA's approach, read the full whitepaper here.