The Clans and Scottish Societies of Canada (CASSOC) 2023 Symposium for Growth and Success includes online sessions for Member Connections, (October 28, 2023), Volunteers and Events (November 19, 2023), Heritage (December 16, 2023), and Sustainability (January 20, 2024.)
This is a summary of the fourth session, Sustainability.
Symposium for Growth and Success: Sustainability
William Petrie, Chairman, CASSOC
The meeting focused on the importance of succession planning in leadership roles and the role of technology in enhancing efficiencies. The discussion emphasized the need for strategic planning when choosing software for an organization, defining goals, identifying constraints, and evaluating functionality, accessibility, scalability, and cost-effectiveness. The meeting concluded without a clear resolution to the succession issue. Discussed was the importance of succession planning in leadership roles, emphasizing the need for technology solutions to enhance efficiencies. Underscored was the importance of policies and procedures to ensure fair treatment and prevent harassment, as well as a sustainable funding strategy for continued success.
Leadership, Succession, Technology, and Sustainability
Paul Johnston, President and Chief Commissioner, Clan Johnston/e in America
Paul provided a presentation on clan strategies for dealing with sustainability-related topics, highlighting the importance of succession planning, defining officer duties, and attracting new members. He also emphasized the clan's successful integration of technology into their operations and the importance of a robust security system.
Succession Planning and Technology Prioritization
Susan Caldwell, Technology Director for the Clan MacAulay Association
Susan discussed the importance of succession planning in organizations, emphasizing the need for identifying potential successors, creating role descriptions, and establishing backup plans. Susan discussed the importance of strategic planning and considering various factors when choosing software for an organization. She wrapped up by advising organizations not to be afraid to ask for order renewals and to be prepared to chase them.
Succession Planning, Organizational Structure, Technology and Security
Scott McDougall Vice President for Canada for the Clan MacDougall Society of North America
Scott discussed the importance of succession planning, emphasizing that it often gets neglected. He suggested using a large board of directors as a training ground for future executives and setting up small working committees with a mix of veterans and newer members. Scott emphasized the importance of understanding and effectively utilizing technology within organizations. He stressed the need for analysis to ensure technology aligns with workflow processes.
Governance, Recognizing Contributions and Code of Conduct Policy
Joan McAulay, Chief of the Clan MacAulay Association
Joan shared her organization's governance experience, emphasizing the importance of executive meetings, hybrid meetings, and recognition of contributions. She also stressed the need to review and update constitutions and bylaws regularly and to maintain a respect policy and code of conduct. The discussion also touched upon the role of a clan commissioner and the importance of having a clear plan before implementing processes. Towards the end, there was a discussion about the code of conduct and the frequency of newsletters.
Learn more here: https://www.cosca.scot/sustainability