Resilience in Change: A Call to Financial Management (FI) Professionals in the Canadian Federal Public Service

In the heart of Ottawa, a unique group of professionals is making waves in how they approach the challenges of our time. These individuals, often unsung, are the backbone of the Canadian federal public service, especially in the financial management domain. With Canada’s evolving socio-economic landscape, the call to action is clear: we must rise, resilient and adaptive, amidst an environment of constant change.

Change is not merely an external event we react to; it is a process we must embed within ourselves. As financial management professionals, you are at the epicentre of this transformation. Your ability to be agile and resilient will set the tone for the entire federal public service.

The Nature of Change

In the modern era, change is both rapid and relentless. The introduction of new technologies, shifts in global economic power, and unexpected global challenges like pandemics mean that today’s solutions might not be applicable tomorrow. Understandably, such change can feel overwhelming.

However, let’s remember the words of the great philosopher Heraclitus: “The only thing that is constant is change.” What if, instead of dreading it, we embraced change as an intrinsic part of our jobs? The truth is that change brings with it unparalleled opportunities for growth, learning, and innovation.

Building Resilience in the Face of Change

  • Develop a Growth Mindset: Embrace challenges and view failures not as evidence of incapacity but as a heartening springboard for growth and for stretching our existing abilities.
  • Stay Informed: Be proactive in seeking out knowledge. Attend workshops, engage in courses, and participate in dialogues that focus on emerging trends in financial management.
  • Network Actively: Collaboration can be a powerful tool. Engage with peers, government experts, and professionals from diverse backgrounds. By exchanging ideas, you’ll find innovative solutions to new challenges.
  • Prioritize Well-being: Change can be stressful. Prioritizing your mental and emotional well-being ensures you remain at your optimal best. This is not just good for you but also for those you serve.

Change as an Opportunity

Instead of seeing change as a threat, view it as an opportunity. Every shift or transformation in the industry is a chance to develop new skills, to innovate, and to position yourself as a forward-thinking leader in the space. By leading with resilience and adaptability, you can become a beacon for your peers and set standards of excellence.

To the remarkable financial management professionals serving the Canadian public – your dedication, expertise, and resilience have never been more critical. You have the tools, the talent, and the tenacity to not only navigate change but also to thrive within it.

Canada looks to you to shape its fiscal future, to ensure stability amidst uncertainty, and to craft innovative solutions to unprecedented challenges. By embracing change and fostering resilience, you are not just safeguarding Canada’s financial health but also ensuring its vibrant, prosperous future.

Let’s face this journey with optimism and resolve. Change is the only constant, but so is our undying Canadian spirit of perseverance. 🍁

Here’s to resilience, adaptability, and shaping the future, one fiscal decision at a time.

DAN MOORCROFT, PRESIDENT/CEO, BSS (Law), MBA

QMR Consulting & Professional Staffing

Dan is a member of the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA), CEO in Residence and past Chairman, Dean’s Advisory Board (Telfer School of Management) at University of Ottawa, Co-chairman, Advisory Board of LEADing Practice (Enterprise Architecture), and Advisory Committee Member – Professional Services Acquisition Advisory Committee at Public Works and Government Services Canada, and a former Public Servant.

A C-Level Executive (CEO, COO, Director) in Professional Services, Government and IM/IT with proven leadership ability of both small and large teams in both the Private and Public Sectors. Change leader with keen attention to detail and who builds effective teams empowered with accountability and focused on service delivery, with a record of dramatic improvements in policy and process, cost savings and P&L. Innovative business development pioneer with outstanding record of project success. Analytical visionary adept at developing new strategies and aligning technology to grow the business. Executive team player and strong communicator who thrives on responsibility and accountability. Dan has a Master of Business Administration (MBA) Degree and undergraduate Law degree.

Dan leads QMR Staffing Solutions Incorporated/ QMR Consulting & Investigative Services, a full-service, consultant placement firm specializing in experienced resources with backgrounds in Financial Management, Audit, Corporate Services, Workplace Investigations, HR/ Staffing/ Policy among other areas.

LinkedIn Profile: ca.linkedin.com/in/danmoorcroft/