BEST is a network of peers who meet to discuss their projects or experiments. Not only is the diversity of territorial dynamics enlightening, but these exchanges are enriched by the contribution, always very stimulating, of researchers or experts, not to mention the “former” City CEOs who provide the youngest with the benefit of their experience.
What is the purpose of the BEST network?
BEST is a network of peers who meet to discuss their projects or experiments. Not only is the diversity of territorial dynamics enlightening, but these exchanges are enriched by the contribution, always very stimulating, of researchers or experts, not to mention the “former” City CEOs who continue to participate in the meetings and provide the youngest with the benefit of their experience. The level of technicality of this network seems extraordinary to me. In addition, the bonds of friendship that are forged through meetings provide valuable support in the practice of our professions. We are therefore very lucky to be able to keep this network alive with the support of our communities and France Urbaine.
How are the themes of the meetings chosen?
It is a mix of topics suggested by members of the network, proposed by our colleague from the community hosting the meeting or, often, linked to national news, such as a regulatory change which will force us to transform very quickly. There is no shortage of technical subjects, but we try to devote as much time to managerial questions, which are at the heart of our business and the stakes of which are enormous. If we want to carry out our projects successfully, our organizations must be attractive and make agents want to invest in meaningful work. We find similar issues in the participation of residents, a theme which will certainly come up more and more in our meetings.
Do you envisage any changes in the organization of the meetings?
I would like to move towards more shared animation and preparation of meetings, which allow all the visions or sensitivities of our members to be expressed. Our collective attachment to the annual study trip to a foreign country, always very enriching, is beyond doubt. But we must also find a way to better exchange with our counterparts in other European countries. I would also like to invite other women CEOs from large cities or metropolises to join us because we are not sufficiently represented within BEST today. Better promoting the quality of our work through appropriate communication could allow us to strengthen our network in these two directions.
Comments collected on March 22nd 2024.