invites applications for:
2018 Emerging Leaders Retreat
October 12-14, 2018
Harris Ranch, Coalinga, California
Dear Colleagues:
On behalf of the Northern California Chapter of the International Public Management Association -
Human Resources (“NCCIPMA-HR”), it is our distinct privilege to invite applications for our Chapter’s second
Emerging Leaders Retreat. A first-of-its-kind initiative in the nation, the Retreat will offer a unique opportunity for
emerging public sector human resources professionals seeking professional growth to develop the leadership traits
and competencies to succeed in the role of a Chief Human Resources Officer (“CHRO”). Based on national,
state, and local statistics, retirement and succession planning continues to be a focus for government service, and
the Retreat was designed specifically to meet the industry needs for CHROs in the public sector. Now is the time
to assess your goals and take the leap to advance your career!
As you are aware, NCCIPMA-HR is the only organization in Northern California that focuses on the
professional development needs of all public sector human resources professionals in disciplines including:
recruitment, labor relations, classification/compensation, benefits administration, retirement, organizational
development, occupational health and safety, workers’ compensation, and equal employment opportunity. With a
network of 3,500 public sector human resources professionals and a 30-year track record of developing HR
leaders of the future, our Chapter continues to serve as a national and regional model for leadership development
and career advancement. In recognition of our role in serving the needs of public sector HR, and to invest in the
next generation of HR leaders, this Retreat will be offered at no cost, and all expenses (with the exception of travel)
will be covered by NCCIPMA-HR.
With a robust curriculum designed by some of the state’s top CHROs and trainers, you will leave the
Retreat feeling energized and prepared to meet the ever-changing demands of public sector human resource
management. In addition, to foster professional networking and lifelong friendships, the Retreat will be kept to a
small size of 20 professionals who demonstrate the most potential to advance into the role of a CHRO within the
immediate horizon. Attendees will work in tandem with each other, as well as in cohort groups to foster
collaboration and friendships. The Retreat will be guided by faculty advisors who have decades of experience in
leading top government organizations throughout California and beyond. In addition, all attendees will have one-
on-one opportunities to connect with executive recruiters specializing in public sector placements to receive
individualized leadership assessment and career coaching.
Our inaugural Retreat in 2017 was a tremendous success, and we had the privilege of witnessing first-hand
the passion and commitment that our Leaders exhibited to become California public sector’s next CHROs. We
hope you will join us at Harris Ranch this October to experience this unique leadership development program
that we hope will be a successful model for public sector HR professionals in the years to come.
Gene Boucher, IPMA-SCP
Chapter President
Why NCCIPMA-HR?
The Northern California Chapter of the International Public
Management Association - Human Resources (“NCCIPMA‐HR”)
is a professional organization dedicated to serving the needs of
public sector human resources professionals throughout
Northern California. Along with its sister chapter, the
Sacramento Mother Lode Chapter of IPMA-HR, we maintain a
network of approximately 3,500 public sector HR practitioners
from all human resources disciplines, including recruitment,
classification and compensation, employee benefits, labor
relations, risk/safety, workers’ compensation, training, and
equal employment opportunities. It is the most ideal
organization to connect with HR professionals at all levels.
NCCIPMA‐HR focuses on the professional development of
public sector HR practitioners at all levels, for specialists in
every HR function and for the HR generalist. Services are
provided through local workshops and seminars; the Chapter
web site at www.nccipma.org; Professional Development
Workshops (PDW); and the Chapter’s flagship Annual
Conference in Sonoma Valley each March.
In recognition of NCCIPMA-HR’s pioneering spirit and dedication to developing HR leaders, in
April 2017, NCC was recognized by the Western Region of IPMA-HR as the Outstanding
Chapter, making us the “Best in the West”, and in August 2017, NCC was further honored by
IPMA-HR with the Chapter Award for Excellence, thereby making history as being the “Best in
the Nation.” Learn more by clicking here for a short video on NCCIPMA-HR’s journey to
becoming one of the largest and most celebrated chapters of the national organization.
Why the Emerging
Leaders Retreat? Why is NCCIPMA-HR offering this retreat? As part of NCCIPMA-HR’s commitment to developing HR
leaders of the future, and to meet the succession planning
needs of our profession, NCCIPMA-HR is offering this
Emerging Leaders Retreat, which is intended to expose
emerging professionals to the role of a Chief Human
Resources Officer (“CHRO”). Selected attendees will
participate in three consecutive days of intensive
leadership training, and network with top CHROs and industry professionals. In addition, attendees
will receive individualized career coaching with executive recruiters specializing in public sector
placements, with the intent to prepare them for career opportunities that are in the horizon. Our
inaugural Retreat was held in October 2017, and we graduated 22 exceptional HR professionals.
Given the success of the 2017 program, NCCIPMA-HR has pledged to graduate 40 more professionals
in 2018 and 2019 to meet the succession planning need of public sector HR in Northern California.
How is this retreat different than NCCIPMA-HR’s other technical training programs?
Although NCCIPMA-HR offers an array of technical training
in all areas of HR (i.e. recruitment, classification,
compensation, benefits, labor relations, and workers’
comp), this retreat is different because it focuses on the
core competencies needed to become a CHRO. The
retreat provides an exclusive opportunity for attendees to
meet other peers who are emerging leaders, and develop
a network of professional relationships at the CHRO level.
Attendees are encouraged to further their technical training through NCCIPMA-HR and other
professional development organizations.
About the Retreat
What should I expect at this retreat?
What does the program look like?
You will expect to learn a lot from top CHROs throughout California, as well as industry
professionals who work hand-in-hand with these CHROs on a daily basis. This retreat will
provide attendees with an insight into the role and challenges of a CHRO. Attendees also
network with a group of 20 emerging leaders over the course of three days, as well as work in
small cohorts to compete in the “Project HR” competition. It is our hopes that this program
will develop lifelong professional association among attendees to foster continued
collaboration in public sector HR.
The Retreat offers three days of intensive training
using various learning formats, including: lectures,
presentations, facilitated discussions, interactive
learning, and simulated exercises. In the evenings,
attendees are treated to a family-style dinner on
Friday, and a formal dinner banquet on Saturday.
Attendees will be expected to work collaboratively
in their cohorts into the evening of Saturday to
prepare for the “Project HR” challenge, with a
formal presentation of their projects on Sunday.
The program officially begins at 8:30 a.m. (with check-in at 7:30 a.m.) on Friday, and is expected to
conclude by noon on Sunday.
This program is being offered at no cost. What’s the catch? As part of NCCIPMA-HR’s commitment to professional excellence, this Retreat is being offered at no
cost to all participants. The only catch is that you must commit to participating and remaining
engaged throughout the entire program, and cover the cost of travel (i.e. gas) to and from Harris
Ranch. Attendees are expected to arrive on time each day, participate in all sessions and activities,
and showcase their HR expertise during the “Project HR” competition while working with their
cohort teammates. For attendees who are scheduled to work on Friday, they must receive
permission from their supervisor to take the day off in advance of confirming their participation.
Developing the Future
of Public Sector HR In recognition of the succession planning needs of our profession, the NCCIPMA-HR Board has
pledged our organization’s mission to focus on developing the next generation of Chief Human
Resources Officers (“CHROs”) and HR Generalists in the public sector. We are the only organization
that continually invests our resources in providing exceptional training and networking opportunities
to cultivate lifelong relationships with our members. Simply put, we are the best organization for
public sector HR professionals to invest in your career.
Sonja Stanchina Next Generation Scholarship In recognition of Western Region IPMA-HR President, Sonja Stanchina, in March 2017, the NCCIPMA
-HR Board of Directors established the “Sonja Stanchina Next Generation Scholarship” to provide
one selected emerging leader (with less than five years of public sector HR experience) with an
opportunity to attend the Chapter’s Annual Conference at no cost. The scholarship program was
named after President Stanchina in recognition of her efforts in supporting leadership opportunities
for emerging professionals as the Chair of IPMA-HR’s Next Generation Task Force at the national
level, and for her 10 years of dedicated service to the NCCIPMA-HR Board.
Developing Competencies for HR Success Developing Competencies for HR Success (“DCHRS”) is a
comprehensive leadership course developed to provide mid-
to senior-level human resource professionals, committed to
working in the public sector, with a foundation for success.
This comprehensive training program challenges HR
professionals to meet the ever-changing demands of the
public sector and prepare them to be a partner in
organizational change and ensuring their agency remains relevant for the future by encouraging and
implementing the 20 competencies of the IPMA-HR Competency Model and transform from
managing “people issues” to managing “people-related business issues.” NCCIPMA-HR has been
providing the DCHRS curriculum at the local level since 2009, and we continue to offer this
exceptional training to develop the next generation of HR leaders. The 2018 program was held
between January 9 - 12, 2018 in San Jose and was led by Andrea Cutler, IPMA-HR Executive Council
Representative, and Robert Neiuber, Human Resources Director for the City of Rancho Cucamonga.
Harris Ranch
Where is Harris Ranch? And why is the retreat being hosted there? Harris Ranch is located in Coalinga, California, which is located approximately 180 miles from San
Francisco. Harris Ranch is a popular and treasured landmark destination in the Central Valley, and it
is conveniently located just adjacent to the I-5 freeway. The hacienda-style resort offers full
conference facilities, three on-site restaurants, an exquisite hotel, complimentary wireless Internet
access, a 25-meter Olympic-style heated pool, three outdoor whirlpool spas, a walking path and
beautifully landscaped courtyard, and a general store. Attendees will not only experience a resort-
like environment, but will also enjoy world-famous Harris Ranch beef (also known as “West’s Best
Beef”) and Harris Farms produce during their stay. Today, Harris Ranch remains under the
ownership of the Harris family, and Mr. and Mrs. Harris continue to actively participate in the
management of the property.
How do I get to Harris Ranch?
The best way to get to Harris Ranch is by car via the I-5 freeway. It is about 2½ to 3 hours from the
San Francisco Bay Area. Attendees may wish to consider carpooling with other participants and
enjoy the drive to Harris Ranch. A full-service gas station and Tesla charging spots are available at
Harris Ranch.
What about hotel arrangements? Is that covered?
NCCIPMA-HR will cover the costs of all hotel stays. Attendees will check in on Friday, and check out
on Sunday. All hotel room reservations will be based on double occupancy, so be prepared to room
with a classmate. Attendees will have an opportunity to select their roommates (if desired) prior to
final room assignments.
Are meals covered?
Absolutely. All meals, including breakfast, lunch, snacks, and dinner are covered for the duration of
the program. Harris Ranch will accommodate special dietary restrictions, including vegetarian,
vegan, gluten free, etc. Alcoholic beverages are not covered, except wine will be provided at the
formal dinner banquet planned for Saturday.
Project HR,
Coaching & Credits Tell me more about the “Project HR” challenge?
“Project HR” is a competition designed to simulate the role
of a CHRO and the challenges faced by CHROs in today’s
environment. Attendees are expected to work in small
cohort groups of four to five participants. Each cohort will
be advised by a faculty mentor. A panel of experienced HR
experts will serve as judges to crown the 2018 winners.
What is individualized leadership assessment and career coaching?
To support and facilitate career growth opportunities,
NCCIPMA-HR has arranged for several of the state's top
executive recruiters to conduct individualized interview and
coaching feedback for attendees. The executive coaches
will provide resume critique, interview tips, leadership style
assessment, and feedback on career opportunities.
Attendees will also be added to the recruiters’ network and
may be notified of future career opportunities. The
coaching sessions will take place in conjunction with the
program sessions on Friday and Saturday.
Will I receive certification credits for participating in this program?
IPMA-HR Certified Professionals (IPMA-CP) and Senior Certified Professionals (IPMA-SCP) may earn
six re-certification credits as part of their participation in this retreat. In addition, NCCIPMA-HR is a
SHRM Recertification Provider. This program is valid for 12 PDCs toward SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP
recertification. All attendees will also receive a Certificate of Participation at the conclusion of the
program.
Schedule &
Topics The Retreat offers a jam-packed schedule with three days
of intensive leadership development training using
various learning formats, including: lectures,
presentations, facilitated discussions, interactive
learning, and simulated exercises. Be ready to meet a
world-class faculty featuring some of public sector HR’s
best CHROs and industry professionals. You will leave
the Retreat feeling energized and prepared to advance to
the next level of your career!
Sample Schedule At-a-Glance
Friday, Oct. 12, 2018
● Ice Breaker & Team Building
● Managing a Multi-Generational
Workforce: Let’s Predict the
Future of Public Sector HR!
● What Executives Look for in a
CHRO: Insights from the
Experts
● Ethical Dilemmas in Practice:
HR Must Champion a
Principled Culture
● The Foundation of Labor
Relations
● Speaking to Elected or
Appointed Officials with
Confidence
● Evening Dinner (Casual) &
Social Activities
Saturday, Oct. 13, 2018
● Ice Breaker & Team Building
● Earning a Seat at the
Leadership Table: Keys to
Building Strategic HR
Partnership
● Leadership Style & Personality
Assessment
● Stand Out from the Crowd:
Interview Tips & Insights from
an Executive Recruiter’s
Perspective
● Evening Dinner Banquet
(Formal)
Sunday, Oct. 14, 2018
● Project HR Competition
Presentations
● Graduation & Farewell
2018 Retreat
Faculty Advisors
Presented by:
Ethics & HR’s Role to Champion a Principled Culture
The 2018 Retreat proudly features the following faculty advisors, who graciously volunteered their
time and expertise to support NCCIPMA-HR.
Presented by:
Executive Career Coaching & Leadership
Presented by:
Let’s Predict the Future of Public Sector HR!
Distinguished Faculty Advisors
Melissa Asher Christopher Boucher Gene Boucher Andrea Cutler Corey Hurwitz Michael Hurwitz
Sr. Practice Leader Director of HR Chief HR Officer Exec. Council Rep. CEO/Founder President/Founder
CPS HR Consulting Port of Oakland Union Sanitary Dist. IPMA-HR Careers in Govt’ Careers in Govt’
NO
IMAGE
AVAILABLE
Georg Krammer Rachel Shaw Kandice Taylor-Sherwood Loretta van der Pol Teresa Webster Joseph Wiley
CEO President Exec. Dir. of Civil Service Chief, SMCS Executive Recruiter Partner
Koff and Associates Shaw HR Consulting City of Long Beach Public Emp. Relations Bd. CPS HR Consulting Wiley Price & Radulovich
Class of 2017
Graduates
Teresa Abrahamsohn
Joseph Ambrosini
James Arnold
Irene Barragan-Silipin
Candice Basnight
Katherine Estrada
Cheryl Franzen
Christina Gendreau*
Sylvia Gonzalez-Shelton
Michael Horta
Nancy Jeu
Leticia Livian
Kaitlyn Miller
Juli Mortensen
Kimberly Murdaugh
James Peavey
Gishela Portugal
Christina Pruett
Stacey Thompson
Jocelyn Turner
Lori Worden
Selina Zapien
* In memoriam
What Our
Graduates Say
“Congratulations to all the graduates who took the time and are making a commitment to their
professional development, and to NCCIPMA-HR for putting together a such a meaningful program for
up-and-coming public sector HR leaders.” – Mary Rowe, IPMA-HR President
“It was a pleasure to spend the weekend with such an
amazing group of HR professionals. We were
absolutely blessed with wonderful mentors and
industry leaders to support us during this journey. A
huge thank you to NCCIPMA-HR for the dedication and
commitment to developing the next generation of HR
leaders!” – Kimberly Murdaugh, Human Resources
Manager, City of Tracy
“This weekend was an incredible opportunity to
strengthen leadership skills, build a stronger
understanding of the demands of a CHRO role, and
identify areas to focus on in professional development.
But perhaps some of the most valuable benefits are
the relationships established and developed with other
HR professionals. I would strongly encourage anyone
interested in advancing their careers to apply for the
opportunity in future years.” – Christina Pruett,
Human Resources Manager, Contra Costa County
“This is the first conference I’ve attended in 20 years of HR practice that was more than general topic
coverage. High level topics were covered with practical and applicable solutions. What a wonderful
experience. Thanks for the awesome learning and networking weekend!” – Teresa Abrahamsohn,
Senior Human Resources Analyst, City of San Mateo
Other FAQs
Are there other leadership retreats of this kind? While there are generally other leadership retreats available, this retreat is specifically focused on
development CHROs in the public sector to meet the needs of public agencies. The faculty members
are familiar with the IPMA-HR organization, and fully support the mission of NCCIPMA-HR as well as
the purpose of this retreat.
What is the dress code? We encourage you to dress comfortably for this retreat. Casual (but professional) attires are
recommended. A formal dinner is planned for Saturday evening, so please plan to bring one evening
attire for this event.
Can I bring my significant other, dog or family?
Since attendees will be rooming with another colleague,
and will be involved in an extensive curriculum and group
activities, it is not likely that they will not have any time
left to spend with a significant other or family members.
Similarly, although Harris Ranch is a dog-friendly hotel,
you likely won’t be spending much time (if any) with your
four-legged friend.
What if I need reasonable accommodations? For accommodation requests, please contact us.
Have additional questions? Connect with NCCIPMA-HR using one of the
following methods:
Web: www.nccipma.org
Email: [email protected]
LinkedIn: NCCIPMA-HR
Application
Requirements What are the requirements to apply?
Attendees must meet the following requirements in order to be considered:
A Northern California or Sacramento Mother Lode Chapter member in good standing;
Less than 10 years of experience in public sector human resources with demonstrated and
progressive career growth;
Currently employed by a public sector agency in Northern California;
Available for the entire duration of the program between October 12 through 14, 2018
Other factors, including: prior participation in professional training and development activities (such
as the IPMA-HR Developing Competencies for HR Success course), volunteer roles with NCCIPMA-HR
or other professional development organizations, membership and activities with partner
organizations, including CODESP, CSPCA, IPMA-HR, PELRAC, Sacramento Mother Lode Chapter of
IPMA-HR, WRIPAC, and WRIPMA-HR, are helpful and may also be considered by the Committee.
What should I expect as part of the application process?
Because of the small class size (limited to no more than 20 participants), attendees will be selected
through a competitive process. Interested emerging leaders must submit an application, provide a
resume (for coaching purposes), and attach a personal statement. While no factors are dispositive,
the Selection Committee will employ a holistic approach and invite applicants who have
demonstrated the most potential and interest in becoming a CHRO someday.
I do not meet the “minimum qualifications”. May I still apply?
Besides the core requirements that all applicants must be an active member of either the Northern
California or Sacramento Mother Lode Chapter in good standing, and currently work for a public
agency in a human resources role, attendees who do not meet, or otherwise exceed, the selection
guidelines are nevertheless encouraged to apply. Please indicate any exceptions in your personal
statement and provide relevant explanation for the Selection Committee’s consideration. While we
cannot guarantee anyone a spot, NCCIPMA-HR will consider all applicants on an individual basis.
Application Form
Due: Aug. 6, 2018 Please use the form below to apply for the 2018 NCCIPMA-HR Emerging Leaders Retreat. Include a copy of your resume and
personal statement, and email the completed application packet to [email protected] no later than August 6, 2018.
Name: __________________________________ Job Title: __________________________________
Agency: __________________________________ Email Address: __________________________________
Phone (Ofc): __________________________________ Phone (Cell): __________________________________
Designations: IPMA-CP IPMA-SCP SHRM-CP SHRM-SCP Other: __________________________
Self-Certification: As a professional, I hereby attest that I meet the following qualifications and requirements for the 2018
NCCIPMA-HR Emerging Leaders Retreat. If an exception is requested, please note in your personal statement.
I am a Northern California or Sacramento Mother Lode IPMA-HR Chapter member in good standing;
I have less than 10 years of experience in public sector human resources;
I am currently employed by a public sector agency in Northern California;
I am available for the entire duration of the program between October 12 through 14, 2018,
and have either secured or will secure the necessary approval for time off on Friday, Oct. 12 to
attend the Retreat if I am scheduled for work that day;
I have attached a current copy of my resume; and,
I have attached a personal statement of less than three (3) pages;
Personal Statement: Attach a personal statement, not to exceed three (3) pages, and discuss your career goals in the field of public
sector human resources. Please note any past participation in professional training and development activities (such as the IPMA-
HR Developing Competencies for HR Success course), volunteer roles with NCCIPMA-HR or other professional development
organizations, membership and activities with partner organizations, such as CODESP, CSPCA, IPMA-HR, PELRAC, Sacramento
Mother Lode Chapter of IPMA-HR, WRIPAC, and WRIPMA-HR.
Hold Harmless, Assumption of Risk, Photo and Written Material Consent, Waiver, and Release of Liability: In consideration for
being allowed to participate in the NCCIPMA-HR Emerging Leaders Retreat (“Activity”), I release from liability and waive my right to
sue the Northern California Chapter - International Public Management Association - Human Resources, its employees, directors,
officers, volunteers and agents (collectively “NCCIPMA-HR”) from any and all claims, including claims of NCCIPMA-HR’s negligence,
resulting in any physical injury, illness (including death) or economic loss I may suffer or which may result from my participation in
this Activity. I assume all risks of my participation in this Activity, whether known or unknown to me, including travel to and from
the Activity or any events incidental to this Activity. I agree to hold NCCIPMA-HR harmless from any and all claims, loss or damage
to my personal property, liabilities and costs, including attorney’s fees, as a result of my participation in this Activity. I hereby give
NCCIPMA-HR permission to capture and/or record my name, image, likeness, persona, photograph, or voice, in any media and/or
technology now known or later developed for educational, commercial, publicity, or any other lawful purpose. I have read this
document, and I am signing it freely. I understand the legal consequences of signing this document, including: (a) releasing
NCCIPMA-HR from all liability; (b) waiving my right to sue NCCIPMA-HR; and, (c) assuming all risks of participating in this Activity.
Signature: ______________________________ Printed Name: _________________________ Date: _______________
NCCIPMA-HR Proud to be the “Best in the West”
and “Best in the Nation”
NCCIPMA-HR is a flagship chapter of the International Public Management Association—Human Resources
(“IPMA-HR”), and is the proud recipient of the 2017 IPMA-HR Chapter Award for Excellence and 2017
WRIPMA-HR Outstanding Chapter Award. The purposes and objectives of IPMA-HR are:
to promote excellence through the ongoing development of professional and ethical standards
and career development;
to enhance the image of human resource professionals by recognizing their contributions to the
public service;
to foster fairness and equity by promoting application of merit principles and
equal opportunity for all;
to encourage research and development in human resource management; and
to promote communication and sharing of information among human resources professionals.
Chapter Services
NCCIPMA-HR is the largest chapter of IPMA-HR in the Northern California region,
and serves the counties of: Alameda, Contra Costa, Del Norte, Glenn, Humboldt,
Lake, Lassen, Marin, Mendocino, Modoc, Monterey, Napa, Plumas, San Benito, San
Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, Shasta, Sierra, Siskiyou, Solano,
Sonoma, Tehama, and Trinity. NCCIPMA-HR focuses on the professional
development of public sector human resources practitioners at all levels. Training
are provided through workshops and seminars, the Chapter web site at
www.nccipma.org, and the Annual Chapter Conference in Sonoma Valley,
California.
“We’re your trusted partner for professional development in public sector HR!”
BECOME A MEMBER: www.nccipma.org
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