Virtual event
How to Think Strategically on a Full Schedule
Exclusively for public servants and policymakers
Wednesday, Nov 5, 2025
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Speakers
What to do next
- Catch up on the 8-minute highlights above or dive into the full recording
- Join the Life in Government Community
- Check out our upcoming event How to Get What You Need from Senior Leaders
Resources
Join the Life in Government Community
The Life in Government Community is a collaborative space designed for Apolitical members to connect with peers in the global public service and ask and answer questions on life in government.
Event Description
You're stuck in delivery and firefighting mode — but without space for strategy, nothing ever actually improves.
When you work in government, the pace is relentless, meetings roll back-to-back and the to-do list never stops growing. Amid all the noise and the detail, it’s long-term thinking and big picture initiatives that get pushed aside. And yet, this is the work that drives lasting change and gives space for stronger teams, workflows and outcomes.
This virtual masterclass is about how to make space for strategic work, even when it feels impossible. Join to hear from expert speakers as they share practical tips and approaches to finding breathing room in a packed schedule.
Interested in how Apolitical can support you and your organisation? Learn about collaborating with us.
Image Credit: Pexels
Speakers
Belinda Wood
Director, Strategy Execution Advisers | Former Delivery Support Unit Manager, Western Cape Government
South Africa
Pablo Sobrino
Retired, Assistant Deputy Minister Strategic Policy, Planning and Corporate Affairs and Chief Financial Officer
Canada
Belinda Wood, a Director at Strategy Execution Advisers, specialises in delivering solutions that create meaningful, positive impact. She advises governments and public interest organisations on improving outcomes through effective strategy execution.Previously, Belinda served as a senior member of a delivery unit in a South African provincial government and has developed strategies in areas including the green economy and education.
Pablo Sobrino, Pablo Sobrino’s career began in 1977 with the Canadian Coast Guard aboard ships and various shore-based positions up to Regional Director Marine Programs (Pacific). In 2000, he moved to the Department of Fisheries and Oceans and in 2002, became Regional Executive Director (Western) for Canadian Heritage. In 2006, he became Director General, Strategic Policy, Planning, and Research at Canadian Heritage. In 2009 Pablo was hired as Assistant Deputy Minister (ADM) Strategic Policy, Planning & Corporate Affairs and CFO for Canadian Heritage. In August 2011, he was recruited to the Acquisitions Branch at Public Works and Government Services Canada. His last year full-time was spent at the Canada School of the Public Service working on leadership programs where he retired in 2015. Post-retirement, he continues to work for a variety of federal departments when the need arises.
