EVENTS

Civic Ontario is pleased to partner with the #1 business school in the country, the Schulich School of Business at York University, to offer the CAO Leadership Program each spring (March-May).

This five-day program offers sought-after leadership skills in areas like political acuity, digital transformation, and data analysis to thrive in your role or move up the career ladder. The program is hosted in a convenient choice model of virtual or in-person and features top-rated Schulich instructors with guest appearances from practising CAOs.

• Module 1: Transformational Leadership: Redefine leadership skills, explore cultural transformations, and drive effective leadership. 
• Module 2: Culture Shaping Leadership: Navigate office politics and role of influence, create beneficial alliances, and exceed needs of staff plus elected officials. 
  
• Module 3: Solving Complex Problems: Think critically about your own thinking, embrace disagreement, and find solutions amidst constant change.           
• Module 4: Digital Futures: Develop skils, strategies, and techniques to lead a digital transformation to a citizen-centric municipality.          
• Module 5: Political Acuity: Navigate the political arean and learn how to cultivate your political acuity.          

This program is ideal for CAOs and Aspiring CAOs in municipalities of all tiers and sizes across Ontario. Professional managers and key decision makers will gain the vital leadership skills, strategies, and methods needed to better support elected officials and effectively implement Council policies, leveling up to more senior roles. 

After completing the CAO Leadership Program, you'll receive an authentic digital badge from the #1 business school in Canada that employers will recognize. Upon completion of additional programming through Schulich ExecEd, you will be eligible to receive a Master's Certificate in Municipal Leadership.

Classes regularly sell out so be sure to reserve your spot early.

The 2027 CAO Leadership Program runs from 24 March to 5 May.

The program is hosted in a convenient choice model of virtual or in-person at York's Markham Campus from 9am to 4pm each day:

• Module 1: Wednesday 24 March  
• Module 2: Thursday 25 March           
• Module 3: Wednesday 7 April          
• Module 4: Wednesday 21 April 
• Module 5: Wednesday 5 May          

Member Fee $5000 + HST.

Register Today.