Foreword by the Chair

As I reflect on the vision for management excellence that has guided us since becoming an agency, and look at what has been accomplished during the CCRA's first two years of operation, I am proud to be part of such a dynamic evolution. My Board of Management colleagues and I have witnessed the great strides that can be made when management and staff have a genuine desire to work together as a team, toward a common goal.

During the past year, the CCRA has faced numerous challenges, both from a program perspective and in moving this unique federal institution forward, building on the strengths of both the public and private sectors. Our ability to meet these challenges and seize new opportunities is due to a foundation of sound management practices and the flexibility to adopt innovative approaches that are governed by values rather than rules. We have, for example, expanded our management structure to reflect our commitment to leadership in the CCRA and to put more decision-making in the hands of our managers.

There has been a marked increase in public expectations for enhanced accountability from corporations and government alike. We must continue to demonstrate concrete progress in delivering the best possible services for the tax dollars entrusted to us. Our credibility rests on having in place proper plans, appropriate controls, and an outcome-oriented measurement regime, supported by a willingness to be forthcoming and transparent in reporting our results to Canadians.

Although the Agency is still in its infancy, we are beginning to reap the benefits of innovation. We are learning new roles and responsibilities on our transformation journey, while meeting the daily demands of our complex and changing environment.

My colleagues and I look forward to continuing to oversee this transformation and provide stewardship of the CCRA. These are exciting times, and we are pleased to play a role in fulfilling the Agency's service commitment to Canadians.

Date modified:

2002-11-07