Greetings, fellow ICMA Members!

The ICMA Executive Board has approved the adoption of a global operating model to implement the ICMA Global Engagement Strategy (GES). This operating model will serve as the framework for achieving the goals of the GES and realize our vision to be the leading association of local government professionals dedicated to creating and sustaining thriving communities throughout the world.

The year 2024 marks 100 years since ICMA added the “I” to its name. Since then, our members have been committed to making ICMA a more international organization. The Envision strategic plan, created and ratified by the membership in 2017, identified globalization as a key driver for local governments. The board established the Global Vision and Collaboration Committee (GVC) to begin developing a more comprehensive international strategy. Through the collective efforts of the ICMA Executive Board, the GVC, the International Committee, our members, business partners, international affiliates, staff, and other stakeholders, we are taking the next step in our journey. We're working toward realizing what a truly global organization ICMA can become, and defining our operating model is one of the key milestones in that journey.

Our global vision includes the United States, and the global operating model will provide a foundation for us to continue to grow and improve as an organization, both in the United States and internationally. The model will help us achieve efficiencies and allow us to enhance the member experience by providing new access to global networking, knowledge sharing, and professional development resources, while continuing to provide the same quality programs and services that members are accustomed to receiving.

There are several other key initiatives that are closely aligned with our operating model that form the three-legged stool upon which ICMA’s Global Engagement Strategy rests. They include the work of the recently appointed Governance Task Force charged with providing the board with recommendations regarding the best governance structure to achieve ICMA’s goal of being an effective, diverse, inclusive, and global organization, and a staff-led initiative to reimagine our relationships around the world.

We are excited about what is in store as we provide new opportunities for you to share with and learn from other local government professionals; new products and services for global professionals at all career levels; and conference sessions, webinars, and podcasts that provide a global perspective on local government challenges.

Transforming ICMA into a truly global organization takes all of us. We look forward to engaging you on this journey!