Message from the President - September 2011

As I step into the role as President of NBPMI, I recognize that I have some very big shoes to fill in assuming the responsibilities from out-going President Sylvia Janssen SCMP, and my first responsibility is to take this opportunity to say THANK YOU to Sylvia for her huge contribution to our association over several years, not only as President but in other capacities, as well.

The 2011-12 operating year will be one of exciting challenges for NBPMI.

Along with our partner Institutes and PMAC National, NBPMI will be seeking ways to rejuvenate itself and bring new value to our members. To that end, I ask you: As a potential, current or former NBPMI member, what can we do to make your membership more meaningful and interesting? What would you like to see NBPMI deliver to make your participation more enjoyable? Please, take some time to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it to share your thoughts – we will be examining all possibilities and implementing many suggestions, and we genuinely want to hear from you.

Almost all PMAC Provincial Institutes are facing challenges at this time, with dwindling membership numbers, and cash flow problems. PMAC National is facing similar issues, and the partnerships are working together to find solutions to forge a stronger organization. In the spirit of true partnerships and fair representation, the Institute Advisory Council (IAC) was formed and consists of representatives from PMAC National and each of the provincial and territorial Institutes. It meets four times yearly, sometimes face-to-face and often via teleconference, to seek solutions to the challenges together.

At the New Brunswick level, your Board is working hard to reverse the recent membership reductions and restore sound fiscal operations. I take this opportunity to thank our current Board Directors for their support of me and the Institute. Your dedication is greatly appreciated.

NBPMI is also preparing for Rising Tides, the 2012 PMAC National Convention which we will be hosting in Moncton, at the Delta Beausejour from June 6-8, 2012. Pre-conference seminars will provide an opportunity for members and non-members alike to attend and get an in-depth view of leading-edge issues in Supply Chain Management.

This event will provide a chance for our members to meet and interact with 500+ colleagues from across the country, to network and to share experiences. You should take the opportunity to attend when it is taking place so close to home.
I look forward to working with your Board of Directors to guide NBPMI through the coming year, and to prepare for Rising Tides. I ask all of our members to support the Board and the Host Conference Committee, and hope that you will take every opportunity to enjoy the advantages that they are working to bring to our region.

Bill O’ Donnell, SCMP
President, NBPMI