Issue link: https://read.uberflip.com/i/408997
22 / NOVEMBER.DECEMBER.2014 RINKMAGAZINE.COM PHOTOS: SUMBITTED PHOTOS new leadership on rink policies and procedures." Communication and education are very important to maintain the con- tinuity of the business partnership with the organization. New leadership can often bring new ideas with a differing approach so ensuring that they are speaking on behalf of the entire organization should be a focus. "It's important that one person can't easily undermine the organization or bend its decision-making process to meet their personal agenda," noted Jon Pistey, operations manager at Whittemore Center in Durham, N.H. "Confirming that what is being brought to the table is the consensus of the group is imperative before moving forward and making changes. At the same time, this process can slow down our ability to be nimble and responsive to immediate needs." "Decision-making can take time," added Kwasman. "Changes require consensus so you have to plan ahead in order to get a decision on anything as you know it has to be brought up to the entire board for a vote." For many managers, we deal with competition amongst these organi- zations for prime ice time at the rink. This is especially a difficult chal- lenge as they are all your business partners and you want them to feel equally valued. "Try to get to know your user groups by attending their board meet- ings," said Craig Petersen, general manager of Kettle Moraine Ice Center in West Bend, Wis. "Gain their confidence in you as a manager and that you're understanding of their unique needs. Try to be patient, flexible and open-minded, and know that they all mean well and are representing their program." "We were successful having quarterly meetings with the representa- tives all around the same table to discuss their program growth, challenges and successes," added Pistey. "They also discussed ice needs and worked together to find the best scheduling solutions for all the groups." Working closely and cooperatively with youth hockey associations, fig- ure skating clubs and other community organizations will not only create a comprehensive program offering for your rink's constituency, but also make your job a lot easier. J *NOTE: Both USA Hockey and US Figure Skating have resources available for the estab- lishment and operation of these types of organizations. Once established as affiliates, strict guidelines must be followed. , Continued from page 21 "IT'S IMPORTANT that one person can't easily undermine the organization or bend its decision- making process to meet their personal agenda. Confirming that what is being brought to the table is the CONSENSUS OF THE GROUP is imperative before moving forward and making changes. At the same time, this process can slow down our ability to be nimble and responsive to immediate needs." Jon Pistey Operations Manager Whittemore Center All Aboard!