Local governments in Manitoba are navigating increasing complexity, rising public expectations, and the need for greater accountability. Yet, unlike some of our neighboring provinces, Manitoba does not currently require professional certification for key municipal leadership roles—putting our communities at a disadvantage.
We are proposing targeted amendments to the Manitoba Municipal Administrators Association Act to strengthen local governance, enhance professional standards, and better support administrators across Manitoba.
Why This Matters
- Governance gaps are growing: Without consistent certification standards, municipalities face significant challenges in attracting and retaining skilled administrators.
- The talent pipeline is underdeveloped: A structured approach is needed to cultivate the next generation of municipal leaders. This includes:
- Internal development of emerging leaders already working in municipalities.
- Attracting professionals from outside the municipal sector who bring valuable experience.
- Integrating administrators from other provinces, ensuring their qualifications are recognized and supported in Manitoba.
- Public trust is at risk: Communities expect professional, ethical, and transparent leadership from those entrusted with managing local affairs.
What We’re Proposing: A Tiered Professional Certification Model
- RMMA – Registered Manitoba Municipal Administrator: A foundational designation for all municipal administrators.
- PMMA – Professional Manitoba Municipal Administrator: An advanced designation for senior roles, including Chief Administrative Officers.
- CMMA – The current educational credential, delivered in partnership with the University of Manitoba and governed by MMA. We are requesting the ability to divide the CMMA into a tiered credential, offering a more flexible and scalable approach to education and recognition.
These changes would formalize and professionalize the sector by creating clear pathways for entry, advancement, and recognition.
A Strong Foundation Already in Place
MMA has already laid the groundwork for a professionalized municipal administrative sector. We have:
- Established a public membership registry
- Created a transparent discipline process
- Developed a Professional Code of Conduct and a Competency Framework
- Increased professional development requirements to encourage continuous learning
These steps form the essential foundation for a credible, self-regulating profession—and provide the infrastructure needed to take the next step.
What We Gain
- Stronger local capacity and continuity
- Ethical, professional, and accountable municipal leadership
- Improved oversight and reduced governance risk
- Renewed public confidence in local government
- A clear and sustainable talent pipeline for the future
What These Amendments Will Enable
These amendments will formally grant the Manitoba Municipal Administrators Association (MMA) the authority to define and enforce professional standards across the sector. They will empower MMA with the ability to issue and withdraw professional designations, helping to ensure the credibility and integrity of those credentials. The changes will also reinforce the ongoing development of professional capacity within the municipal sector, creating a more structured and sustainable approach to leadership development. Ultimately, these amendments will establish a trusted framework for accountability and excellence in municipal administration throughout Manitoba.
Looking Ahead
These changes align Manitoba with best practices across Canada and mirror recent precedents—such as the 2015 recognition of planners as a self-regulating profession.
The Ask
We are seeking support for legislative amendments to the Manitoba Municipal Administrators Association Inc. Act. Let’s ensure every Manitoba municipality benefits from qualified, accountable, and future-ready leadership—built on a strong foundation of professional standards and public trust.
