Culture

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 While your members expect seamless digital experiences and strategic growth, most associations are still stuck with outdated staffing models that create burnout, missed opportunities, and operational chaos.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.

Maddie’s session invites you to bust open your view of time management and productivity at work and start thinking of your whole “T.E.A.M.” of time, energy, attention, and money: the precious resources we all need to allocate right but were never taught how. These all converge in our calendar which makes it our most high-leverage tool for success – and our personal playbook waiting to be written. You’ll be challenged to ask yourself new questions to design your days to propel you towards your goals AND enhance your mental and physical health. You will begin to train your calendar to predictably and sustainably drive your best performance – never losing sight of what matters most.