In August 2007, the Austin Human Resource Management Association recognized a significant issue -- a leadership drain as older members of the association and Executive Committee began to retire. AHRMA decided to create a leadership academy to develop emerging volunteer leaders for future roles. This initiative led to the creation of an innovative succession planning solution, "Stepping Stones to Enhanced Leadership." While the initial objective of "Stepping Stones" was to create a sustainable succession plan, it grew to encompass a three-pronged value proposition including goals for the membership (volunteers), the profession (AHRMA), and the community (employers). The high level of originality and inventiveness of "Stepping Stones" is clearly depicted in the unique program design and content. In the first year of implementation, the program provided a talent pipeline that filled 60% of Board positions and in the second year, 75%. Professional development was a significant benefit for both members and the community. An overriding objective of the association is to enhance AHRMA's branding and awareness. The creation of "Stepping Stones" continues to successfully promote AHRMA's branding and awareness. The creation of "Stepping Stones" continues to successfully promote AHRMA's image and reputation and showcase it as an exemplary HR professional association, thus attracting new members and volunteers to ensure AHRMA's continued success and growth.
The Austin Human Resource Management Association won a 2009 Pinnacle Award for this initiative.
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Read more about this award-winnning initiative in SHRM Online.