Q1: What is the Aspiring Directors Program (ADP)?
A1: The Aspiring Directors Program (ADP) is a guided developmental activity for identified candidates to reflect on the competencies that are critical to the success of executives in the federal public service. Participants will explore the importance of self-awareness and personal reflection in becoming a better leader and examine the leadership and self-management skills needed to build teams and become an effective agent of change.
Q2: Who is eligible to participate in this program?
A2: Participants must be at the EX minus 1 level or equivalent and have a talent management plan.
Because of the design of the program, it is important for participants to have some experience in human resource management. The School reserves the right to follow-up with candidates to ensure that they meet the established screening criteria.
Q3: Should I take this program if I am acting at the EX level?
A3: If you are acting at the EX level for an extended period (i.e., more than 6 months), you would benefit more from attending the New Directors Program.
Q4: Will you accept candidates at the EX minus 2 group and level?
A4: We are currently in the pilot phase for the renewed ADP and will only accept EX minus one or equivalent at this time. However, given regional variations in classification levels and associated levels of responsibility, the School will accept such candidates on a case-by-case basis for future offerings. Human resource management will be required for a candidate at this level. The School reserves the right to follow up with candidates to ensure that they meet the established screening criteria.
Q5: How long is the Program?
A5: The program is made up of three phases and takes place over a period of six months. Phases 1 and 3 are in-person classroom-based or virtual classroom-based. Phase 2 covers a period of 4 months and is completed on the job and self-paced online.
Q6: What is the time commitment required for each phase?
A6: To complete the program, participants are expected to:
- spend 3 days (depending on whether it is in-person or virtual) in class for Phase 1 with occasional light reading/homework
- spend approximately 8 to 10 days on individual assignments, online discussions, and peer learning activities during the 4 months allocated for Phase 2
- spend 2 to 3 days in class for Phase 3 with occasional light reading/homework (still in development phase)
Q7: How do I register for the Program?
A7: Contact your departmental learning coordinator to obtain registration instructions. The School reserves the right to follow-up with candidates to ensure that they meet the established screening criteria.
Q8: Are there any prerequisite courses for this program?
A8: No. However, experience managing human resources and successful completion of the Authority Delegation Training Program are recommended.
Q9: Who should I contact if I have questions about the Program?
A9: Please contact the Executive Learning team at the School for additional information about the program.
