Dr. Víctor Rodríguez addressed the challenges of navigating complexity in public administration and highlighted the role of institutional leadership as the driving force behind innovation, interinstitutional cooperation, and results-oriented public policies.

In a new edition of Carver GlobalTalks by GAN, we were joined by Dr. Víctor Rodríguez, Ph.D. in Social Research from the Universidad Panamericana de Guatemala, and current Program Director of the Master of Arts in Public Administration at Carver University. With over 25 years of experience, Dr. Rodríguez is an internationally recognized expert in public administration, institutional leadership, operational efficiency, change management, and evidence-based public policies.

During his lecture titled “Public Administration and Innovation: Institutional Leadership in the Face of Complexity”, Dr. Rodríguez explored the current landscape of public administration, where challenges are no longer linear or isolated but interdependent and multifaceted. He emphasized that “we need to understand the context in which public administration operates today,” a context he defines as complexity, where areas such as housing, infrastructure, technology, and leadership are interconnected, and no single institution can address them in isolation.

Dr. Rodríguez explained the importance of innovation as a strategic tool, which enables:

· Generating new ways to solve old problems.

· Facilitating interinstitutional connection and collaboration.

· Adapting to changing environments.

· Focusing public policies on results, not just procedures.

He also highlighted the barriers that hinder public innovation, including rigid bureaucratic structures, resistance to change, lack of interinstitutional coordination, limitations in resources and capabilities, and an emphasis on procedures over results.

The expert further emphasized that, while technological and process innovation is essential, “none of that works without institutional leadership. Institutional leadership is the true engine of public innovation,” as it allows for coordinating efforts, articulating policies, and promoting collaborative solutions to complex challenges.

Missed the talk? Watch the full session here and check the schedule of our upcoming conferences to stay updated with international experts in public administration, innovation, and institutional leadership.