On 28 September, Dr Ivor Chipkin, Executive Director and Co-Founder of NSI, participated in the 5th Annual Local Government Talent Management Seminar organised by the South African Local Government Association (SALGA). The seminar was held at the Premier Hotel OR Tambo in Kempton Park, Johannesburg, and brought together eminent experts and stakeholders from various sectors.

Themed “Deploying Talent Management Tools that Drive Agility in the Local Government Sector”, the event addressed the evolving challenges and innovations in talent management in local government. It aimed to identify strategies that promote agility and adaptability in the dynamic local government environment.

Dr Chipkin was a panellist in the discussion entitled ‘Exploring how leadership initiatives will contribute to a professional leadership pipeline‘. Joining esteemed experts such as Dr Joyce Toendepi (University of Johannesburg), Prof Mpilo Ngubane (Institute of Local Government Management) and Dr Ruwayne Kock (Industrial/Organisational Psychologist & President of SIOPSA), the panel provided invaluable insights into leadership initiatives and their potential to shape the leadership pipeline in local government.

The seminar, accredited by the South African Board of People Practices (SABPP), serves as a key platform for talent management professionals in the local government sector. It promotes thought leadership, knowledge sharing, networking and advocacy, fostering reflection and progress in the field.

As Rio Nolutshungu, Chief Officer of Municipal Capabilities and Governance at SALGA, points out, the organisation remains steadfast in its mission to promote introspection, professionalism, accountability and innovation in local government. The New South Institute shares these values and recognises the importance of such dialogue and collaboration in enriching local government capacity. We look forward to further opportunities for growth and collaboration in the service of local governance excellence.