testimonials
Cairine Green
As a former Municipal Councillor in two communities in the CRD, I have known Gary Nason in his roles of CAO and Interim CAO. Gary has exceptional leadership, human resources’ and local government experience, and provides the kind of solid advice to municipalities that makes a positive difference to their overall performance. Gary is a pleasure to work with, provides consistent support to individuals and groups, and is particularly skilled at bringing people together to problem solve. His knowledge of and expertise in local government are extensive. Gary is straightforward and clear in providing professional advice and guidance and adept at addressing conflict and achieving consensus. I highly recommend Gary Nason.
Jennifer Goodine
“Jerry Berry is one of the smartest and most creative speakers I’ve ever seen on a stage. He knows how to keep the attention of the audience with his leadership skills. He presented in a manner that was both humourous and entertaining, while still getting his message across to the entire audience. I got incredible feedback from many participants about how inspired they are to transfer what they learned in his session into their professions as Chief Administrative Officers across the country. He would be a huge asset to any group who is looking for an amazing, one-of-kind speaker.”
Carol Mason
“Jerry is one of the most talented local government professionals I have ever worked with. His professionalism, expertise, intelligence and humour make him an exemplary presenter and facilitator and his experience and knowledge working in a local government setting both as a practitioner and as a teacher provides Jerry with a unique insight. I would have no hesitation recommending Jerry for any consulting assignment.”
Wayne Hunter
Gary Nason’s leadership, skills and experience in local government are exemplary.
As a newly elected Mayor, leading first time Councillors, it was Mr. Nason who advised and guided our Strategic Planning process. The resulting Vision and Goals have remained relatively intact and provided sustainable direction in Central Saanich for the past 15 years.
I highly endorse Mr. Nason’s experience and skills in all areas of local government.
Wayne Baldwin
I have no hesitation at all in recommending Jerry Berry to any local government as either a facilitator or a workshop leader. Not only is Jerry knowledgeable and a good communicator, but he delivers the message with refreshing candor and a dash of humour. All of which makes for a top-notch presentation.
Linn Teetzel
Jerry is an inspirational leader, manager and teacher, and is in a unique position to provide exceptional consulting services to local government organizations. He is able to share his extensive expertise and analytical abilities with clients, and is able to assist them to identify and solve organizational problems. As well, he has the proven ability to work with staff members at all levels of the organization in a teaching and mentoring role, and help them to further develop their leadership and management capabilities.
Allan Neilson
Over the past 16 years, I have had the pleasure of working with Jerry in his capacity as City Manager at the City of Nanaimo, Instructor at MATI and Capilano University, and, more recently, as Consultant with Jerry Berry Consulting Inc. In all of my experiences with Jerry he has demonstrated intelligence, an ability to innovate, and a strong commitment to excellence.
Put simply, Jerry gets things done and doesn’t settle for anything less than the best.
I recommend Jerry wholeheartedly to any local government, and to any group that works with local government.
Alison McNeil, MCIP
“I have found Jerry Berry to be an invaluable source of advice and support to local governments.
As a Capilano University instructor, he has provided our public administration students (who are professionals working for local government), key knowledge and insights into how municipal governments work and current issues.
Jerry is an excellent listener, easily approachable and responsive to the needs of those he works with. I would recommend them to anyone wanting to engage his services”
Carol Hamilton
Hiring a municipal CAO can be a harrowing experience at the best of times. Gary Nason and Jerry Berry have the experience, professionalism and connections a city needs to ensure success.
They were able to define the needs of the City of Colwood, recruit candidates of an extremely high quality and match us with the best!
Nils Jensen
Gary served as Oak Bay’s Interim CAO for 8 months. He did a masterful job. He quickly surveyed what was critically needed to get us back on track. With his insightful leadership our municipality’s priorities were quickly re-established, organized and acted on. Gary’s easy manner and leadership skills energized our senior staff. His service was of great value to our community.
Loranne Hilton
Gary Nason served the District of Oak Bay in the role of Chief Election Officer for the 2014 Local Government Election. Gary’s vast experience with the myriad of details involved in election preparation and proceedings, along with his excellent ability to communicate with candidates, residents and staff alike resulted in a very professional, well run election.
Ruth Malli
Recruitment and hiring is all about finding the right fit, Jerrys’ keen insights, contacts and knowledge about local government led us to a great hire. He is not afraid to speak knowledge to power and that is invaluable.