A Transformational Journey: The Effective Executive Leadership Program
The Effective Executive Leadership Program by Edwards Executive Education is Saskatchewan's most unique and impactful leadership development initiative. Nestled in the serene beauty of Elk Ridge, Saskatchewan, this retreat-based, immersive program blends self-development, team-development, and practical application. Designed to elevate leaders to senior roles, it optimizes the essential skills, traits, and abilities required for effective leadership at all levels.
REAL LEADERS, REAL TRANSFORMATIONS
We connected with leaders from the Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities (SARM) to uncover their experiences and key takeaways from the Effective Executive Leadership Program. Laurel Feltin and Jay Meyer both attended the winter 2024 program.
Previously the Director of Advocacy and Communications at SARM, effective December 1, 2024, Laurel now holds the position of Executive Director. In this role, Laurel is now the one leading the SARM staff, providing counsel to its board and its members; a role she is very proud to hold. Laurel has been at SARM for 20 years and had the opportunity to not only lead SARM’s Policy, Communications, Operations and Programs teams but also work under some model leaders that have greatly influenced the leader she strives to be. Congratulations Laurel on your new role!
Jay, now the past Executive Director, held the position from 2014-2024. During his time at SARM Jay’s passion for rural Saskatchewan resulted in him leading and initiating a new board governance structure, improving the depth of SARM’s organizational structure to better react to member’s needs as well as spurring initiatives like the Saskatchewan Broad Band Action Committee and helping Rural Crime Watch get off its feet to name a few. Best wishes Jay on the next steps of your journey!
INSIGHTS FROM LAUREL FELTIN, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Q: How has the Effective Executive Leadership Development program helped you grow as a leader?
Laurel: The program helped me develop a more strategic mindset, teaching me to think beyond immediate challenges and consider the long-term implications of my decisions. It also underscored the importance of clear and empathetic communication, the value of active listening, and the power of empathy in building strong relationships within teams.
Q: What were the most valuable lessons or takeaways from the program for you?
Laurel: I now recognize that building trust within my team requires transparency and accountability in every decision. Explaining 'the why' can go a long way in building that trust. I learned that fostering an environment open to listening to everyone’s perspectives promotes a healthy culture and drives innovation, aligning perfectly with the culture we aim to build at SARM.
INSIGHTS FROM JAY MEYER, PAST EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Q: What specific skills or insights have you gained, and how have you applied them in your role?
Jay: During my time at the Effective Executive Leadership Program, I gained invaluable knowledge and skills that have shaped my leadership approach. A key component was the DiSC Assessment, which highlights the importance of understanding your own personality traits and recognizing those of others to improve communication. It allows leaders to create stronger, more trusting teams. The training also emphasized the necessity of building a trusting and safe environment where individuals feel secure to share and grow. This program showed the benefits of healthy eating and regular exercise, demonstrating how a structured routine can lead to a healthier lifestyle mentally and physically.
Q: How has your participation in this program benefited your organization?
Jay: The program offers many benefits to SARM as it provides a consistent leadership approach. It teaches the correct and most effective ways to lead, equipping participants with practical strategies for everyday challenges. SARM plans to send many of our leaders to this course, aiming to create a leadership/management team that operates on best practices and works together to grow and learn. The content spans all aspects of daily leadership, from decision making to team building, which is essential for SARM's leaders.
About SARM:
Founded in 1905, the Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities (SARM) is an independent association representing rural municipal governments in Saskatchewan. SARM advocates for its members at both the provincial and federal levels, supporting the development of strong, autonomous municipalities with vibrant, diverse economies.
Visit the website to learn more: https://sarm.ca/
About Edwards Executive Education at Edwards School of Business:
As a part of the University of Saskatchewan, Edwards Executive Education has been innovating professional development and continued education for over 40 years. Edwards Executive Education develops leaders that excel in an environment of constant change by offering training in key business areas including project management, business analysis, financial management, executive retreats, half-day seminars, leadership development programming, and in-house or custom training. To learn more visit edwards.usask.ca/execed.
JOIN US FOR OUR NEXT SESSION
Don't miss out on this opportunity to transform your leadership journey. Join us for our next session in March at the beautiful Elk Ridge Resort. Embrace the chance to elevate your leadership skills and connect with fellow leaders across Saskatchewan.
Why Choose This Program?
- Retreat and Renew: Immerse yourself in an unparalleled escape at the premier provincial resort.
- Elevate Leaders: Edwards Executive Education is Saskatchewan's leading resource for professional training and development.
- Experiential Learning: Be inspired and inspire others—right here in the heart of Saskatchewan's vibrant community.
Contact Us Today to reserve your spot and begin your transformational journey with the Effective Executive Leadership Program.