Mark R. Thompson

President and Chief Engagement Officer, McKinley Solutions Exchange
 https://www.mckinleysolutions.com/

Mark R. Thompson is the President and Chief Engagement Officer of McKinley Solutions Exchange based in the Toronto office.

Mark is a nationally recognized speaker in leadership, teambuilding, motivation and human capital. Mark is also a sought-after lead trainer for groups of all sizes, from small leadership retreats to large groups of 500 plus, known for his high energy engaging passion style.

Mark leads active hands-on teams involved in training and development, project management and business development. His expertise is in the areas of team and leadership development, program facilitation, and innovative instructional design.

Mark holds a business degree with a specialization in human resources and management from Bishop’s University. He is a successful Ironman triathlete, youth mental health advocate, cancer fundraiser, road cyclist, foodie, international mountaineer and most importantly a proud father of two active boys.

Mark is a board member of the Culinary Federation and The Learning and Development Accelerator. Mark is an active supporter of the Institute for Performance and Learning, the Association for Talent Development, Human Resources Professionals Association well as the Oakville & Toronto Board of Trade.

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All Sessions by Mark R. Thompson

  • Day 2


  • 14:30  - 15:30
    Stop running your association like it's 1995. While your members expect seamless digital experiences and strategic growth, most associations are still stuck with outdated staffing models that create burnout, missed opportunities, and operational chaos. This session reveals the game-changing leadership model that's helping associations across Canada finally bridge the gap between board vision and member results—without breaking the budget or your mental health.

    Most associations are trapped in an impossible bind: deliver professional-level results with volunteer leadership, small teams, and stretched budgets. This dynamic session reveals the game-changing Fractional Chief of Staff model that revolutionizes how associations operate.

    Mark Thompson, a nationally recognized association strategist and current board member of multiple national organizations, will share the proven framework that helps associations finally bridge the gap between strategic vision and daily execution. Through real case studies, interactive assessments, and practical tools, you'll discover how to access expertise on a budget that works for your organization.

    By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
    > Identify the 5 critical operational gaps that prevent associations from achieving their strategic goals
    > Evaluate whether their current staffing model is limiting their organization's potential
    > Design a fractional leadership approach that fits their association's size, budget, and growth stage
    > Calculate the ROI of strategic operational support vs. the hidden costs of the status quo

    Why Fractional Makes Sense The beauty of the fractional model is that it acknowledges a simple truth: you need this level of strategic operational support, but you may not need it 40 hours a week, 52 weeks a year.

    Instead, you get:
    > Right-sized expertise for your actual needs
    > Cost-effective access to senior-level strategic thinking
    > Flexible engagement that scales with your organization's rhythm
    > Immediate impact without the lengthy onboarding of a full-time hire

    This isn't about doing more with less—it's about doing better with what you have while positioning yourself for sustainable growth.

    Culture



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Event Location

September 29-30, 2025
Rogers Centre Ottawa
Ottawa, Ontario

© 2025 Engaging Associations Forum produced by Event Specialists Inc.

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Mark R. Thompson