My role is to ensure the network meetings are interesting and held regularly, by mobilizing the contributors who can bring another European perspective or different angle on the subjects discussed. Everyone is convinced that the success of BEST stems not only from the choice of the subjects and how they are covered, but also from the pleasure of talking with peers in a setting removed from the pressures of everyday work.
Contact Christian Gauffin
The chief executives of large local authorities have a difficult job. They manage organizations with a large workforce, binding administrative rules and a great number of professions that must be permanently adapted to the needs of public service. They also ensure consistency between the policy choices of elected officials, the needs of users and the functioning of services, in a continually evolving legislative environment and institutional landscape.
Above all, the job of a local authority chief executive requires skills in strategy and administration, and a highly professional attitude. Expertise is developed on the job and enriched by talking with peers.
The BEST meetings were created precisely to offer this opportunity for sharing.
Since 2012, many local authority chief executives have participated, contributing their time, their testimonials, their ideas and, in some cases, their logistical assistance in organizing the events. BEST is an informal network, with no fees or membership card, in which local authority chief executives represent only themselves.
My role, as the designer and organizer of the meetings, is to ensure the network meetings are interesting and held regularly, by mobilizing the contributors who can bring another European perspective or different angle on the subjects discussed.
The meetings are thoroughly prepared, which helps to ensure their quality. Everyone is convinced that the success of BEST stems not only from the choice of the subjects and how they are covered, but also from the pleasure of talking with peers in a setting removed from the pressures of everyday work.
Proof that the BEST network brings genuine value for participants can be seen in the rising number of attendees, around a core of loyal participants that just continues to grow.
Christian Gauffin
Designer and organizer of the BEST meetings