Benefits of a Collaborative Culture in Maple Ridge, British Columbia

As its 2023 rebranding strategy explains, Maple Ridge, British Columbia, is “a city on the move.” This is not just a catchy slogan—the city is transforming the way it does business and working hard to improve residents’ quality of life. And one of the keys to getting this done is its collaborative culture.

Zvi Lifshiz, director of strategic development, communications, and public engagement, attributes Maple Ridge’s collaborative culture to its current leadership team and chief administrator. When staff present an idea to the leadership team, they are met with enthusiasm and encouragement. The “let’s try it” culture has created a sense of psychological safety at Maple Ridge, where people are comfortable with seeking out new ways of doing things, recognizing that not everything is going to succeed. Unlike many other local governments, there is some level of comfort with risk.

• Publication date: December 2024
• Authors: Katie Ludwig and Alison Wuensch