*At the time of interview, Donald served as Director of the School of Graduate Studies at Concordia University.
Donald Lafrance is Director of the School of Graduate Studies at Concordia University - ‘the top-ranked university in North America “under 50”’ - where he leads on the implementation of policies and procedures to meet strategic academic objectives.
Read on below for Donald’s perspective on ‘adult-adult’ management and building a positive, effective working culture in a Higher Education environment:
"A culture where supervisors and colleagues treat each other as adults rather than parents and children."
M.INT –What does a ‘positive working culture’ look like in your organisation?
DL –A culture where supervisors and colleagues treat each other as adults rather than parents and children.
I’ve witnessed work cultures where managers consistently make decisions for employees rather than empowering their autonomy and professionalism. This rarely leads to a high performing and satisfied team.
Adult-adult management is a collaborative, respectful approach where employees are treated as equals, fostering autonomy, open communication, and innovation. It promotes trust, professional development, and collective accountability. Focusing efforts in this direction not only creates a positive work culture but serves as a foundation for accountability across the organisation.
I’ve witnessed work cultures where managers consistently make decisions for employees rather than empowering their autonomy and professionalism. This rarely leads to a high performing and satisfied team.
Adult-adult management is a collaborative, respectful approach where employees are treated as equals, fostering autonomy, open communication, and innovation. It promotes trust, professional development, and collective accountability. Focusing efforts in this direction not only creates a positive work culture but serves as a foundation for accountability across the organisation.