Prime Minister, Dr the Right Honourable Keith Mitchell, this week encouraged permanent secretaries and senior managers in the public service to embrace change and versatility as key traits of good leaders.
Addressing the senior managers at a training session which focused on protocol and diplomacy, the Prime Minister said the Covid-19 pandemic has reinforced the fact that change is inevitable. He said, “In this case, change was forced upon us but what is important to note here, is that we must not be afraid to initiate change and more importantly, we must be prepared to adapt to change. As the pandemic is a continuously unfolding scenario, so too, Government’s operations must evolve to adequately meet the needs of the people we serve.”
Noting that the past year required a significant degree of adaptation due to changes brought about by the pandemic, Dr Mitchell said the technological changes introduced by the Cabinet Secretariat, were quite timely, as they allowed for continuity of operations.
The Prime Minister also noted that, “Leadership is a critical element in the functioning of any organisation and it is no different in the public service. As leaders, you must be empowered with the critical skills and tools that will not only foster your professional development, but also strengthen your management and leadership functions, and position you as worthy examples to be emulated.”
The session was part of a training and development series organised by the Cabinet Secretariat to strengthen the management capabilities of permanent secretaries and department heads.
In her remarks, Acting Cabinet Secretary Ruth Rouse explained the rationale for the session at this time, saying, “Our nation’s development is inextricably linked to its ability to attract foreign direct investment. Grenada has maintained relationships with a number of development partners whose socio-cultural background differs considerably from ours. Successful relationship management and interaction with representatives of these international bodies and institutions require senior managers to be conversant with the tenets of diplomacy and protocol. One misstep can create enough embarrassment and offence to jeopardise a beneficial relationship.”
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