Texas Municipal Human Resources Association recognizes employee development program; book available internationally on administrative best practices for supervisors
The City of McAllen Human Resources Department has earned state and international accolades. The department was recently recognized by the Texas Municipal Human Resources Association, earning the Impact Award, in its population 25,001 and over category, which recognizes initiatives that make a positive impact on employees and enhances organizational culture. Additionally, Christina Flores, director of McAllen’s Human Resources Department, is a featured contributing author in the book, Effective Supervisory Practices, 6th edition, which is available internationally.
“I am so proud of the professional standards set by the City of McAllen and how industry organizations have taken notice of the work we do to develop our employees into future leaders and guide others to develop their own workforce,” said McAllen City Manager Roel “Roy” Rodriguez, P.E. “This award and the inclusion of the chapters in the book, speak volumes of the work done every day at the City of McAllen.”
The first-place recognition was received for the City of McAllen’s Leadership Development Program, which focused on 16 new supervisors and provided leadership training over a seven-month period in topics including leadership versus management; self-care; effective communication; and conflict management. The program was selected as the top pick from amongst 11 entries submitted from the 598 members in the organization. TMHRA is under the umbrella of Texas Municipal League (TML).
“This program not only provided leadership training, but it also created an opportunity for employees to connect and learn from each other. The impact this program has made on the organization is very rewarding,” said Flores.
In early 2020, the International City/County Management Association (ICMA) approached Flores and asked her to lend her expertise field by co-authoring a book aimed at providing front-line supervisors with a resource guide on how to tackle everyday situations. She is amongst the few field-experts hand-picked for this project. Amidst the pandemic, she diligently contributed two chapters: “Ensuring a Harassment-Free and Respectful Workplace” and “Workplace Wellness, Safety and Security” in the hopes of helping supervisors navigate the difficult workplace situations that arise. Additionally, Flores presented content from the book at the Effective Supervisory Practices Webinar Series, which is a certificate program for supervisors.
“I really enjoy the work that I do, and I am honored to be part of this project and to be able to use my knowledge and experience to help others. When writing these chapters I put careful consideration to what supervisors face in the workplace,” concluded Flores.
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