From Silos to Synergy: Transforming Leadership through Collaboration
Course Overview
Effective leadership is developed through training and experience rather than innate talent alone. Research shows that managers directly influence up to 70% of team engagement, yet only about 10% of people are considered natural-born leaders. At the same time, many organizations face leadership gaps, and more than half of managers report never receiving formal leadership training.
This interactive workshop explores how Marion County is transforming its organizational culture by investing in leadership development, breaking down departmental silos, and strengthening communication across teams. Participants will learn how intentional leadership development can improve employee engagement, collaboration, and organizational performance.
Attendees will gain insight into DiSC personality styles and discover how behavioral differences influence communication, teamwork, and leadership effectiveness. Through real-world examples and practical strategies, participants will learn how to build stronger cross-departmental relationships, align organizational goals, and foster a culture of trust, accountability, and collaboration.
The session will also highlight cost-effective leadership development resources and innovative funding opportunities that support workforce growth. Participants will leave with actionable tools and proven strategies to empower employees, strengthen teamwork, and foster a more unified, collaborative leadership culture within their organizations.
The webinar will include a presentation followed by a Q&A session, with attendees able to submit questions either during registration or in real time. The Florida LTAP Center is pleased to partner with the American Public Works Association Florida Chapter (APWA-FL) to bring you this webinar.
Key Takeaways
Understand the link between leadership development and employee engagement.
Recognize how DiSC personality styles impact communication and team dynamics.
Identify strategies to break down silos and improve cross-functional collaboration.
Explore practical approaches for developing emerging leaders.
Learn about cost-effective resources and funding opportunities for leadership training.
Certificates and Credits
This webinar is provided at no cost and will award a certificate to those fully attending and completing the webinar. Professional Development Hours (1.5 PDHs) will be provided to those that request these during registration.
Target Audience
Public works directors, county and municipal managers, department heads, supervisors, team leaders, human resources professionals, and emerging leaders interested in developing leadership capacity, strengthening cross-departmental collaboration, improving communication, and creating a more engaged workforce.
Meet Your Instructors
Carl Zalak, III
Carl Zalak, III is a dedicated public servant, business leader and longtime Marion County resident with more than 15 years of experience in local government and community leadership. A graduate of the University of South Florida with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, specializing in Management Information Systems, Carl also brings extensive experience in the waste services industry and business ownership.
In 2010, Carl was elected to the Marion County Board of County Commissioners, becoming the youngest person ever elected to the board at the time. He has since been re-elected to four terms and has served as Chairman of the Board three times. Throughout his tenure, Carl has championed economic development, infrastructure, responsible growth and initiatives that preserve Marion County’s unique character and quality of life.
Carl’s leadership extends beyond Marion County through his involvement with the Florida Association of Counties and the National Association of Counties, where he has served on committees focused on health and public safety, finance, taxation, administration, energy, environmental issues, land use and technology.
Carl is committed to responsible leadership, economic opportunity and preserving the qualities that make Marion County a great place to live, work and raise a family.
Amanda Tart
Amanda Tart is an experienced public sector leader with nearly two decades of expertise in local government administration. After earning a Bachelor’s degree from Florida State College and a Master’s in Human Resources Management from Webster University, Amanda built a robust foundation in public service leadership.
In 2024, she completed the Florida Association of County’s Institute of Government, further honing her ability to navigate complex organizational and governmental challenges. Amanda joined Marion County government in 2014, initially as Human Resources and Risk Director. Her strategic leadership led to significant advancements in workforce management, and in 2021, she was promoted to Assistant County Administrator.
In her current role as Assistant County Administrator for the Marion County Board of County Commissioners, Amanda oversees a variety of essential county departments, including Facilities Management, Public Relations, Veterans Services, the Public Library system, Information Technology, and the county’s Legislative office. Her comprehensive experience has allowed her to effectively manage operations, streamline processes, and drive positive outcomes for the community.
Amanda’s leadership is defined by a focus on efficiency, innovation, and service to the public. She is dedicated to creating a better Marion County and improving the quality of life for its residents.
Addie Javed, PhD, PE, CFM
Dr. Addie Javed is a civil engineer and public service executive with nearly 30 years of experience in infrastructure planning, asset management, and public administration. He has served in senior leadership roles in both municipal and private-sector organizations, including senior leadership responsibilities, and is currently the Chair of the Leadership & Management Committee for APWA Florida Chapter.
His experience includes oversight of capital improvement programs, utilities, stormwater systems, transportation infrastructure, and long-term resilience initiatives. He has led multidisciplinary teams and managed complex public infrastructure operations.
Dr. Javed holds a Ph.D. in Civil Engineering and a Master’s degree in Environmental Engineering. He is a licensed Professional Engineer (PE) and Certified Floodplain Manager (CFM).
He has been recognized by Engineering News-Record as one of its “Top 20 Under 40” for contributions to asset management and infrastructure resilience. Most recently, he was named one of the Top 10 Public Works Leaders of the Year nationally.
REGISTER FOR THIS WEBINAR
From Silos to Synergy: Transforming Leadership through Collaboration
October 28, 2026
1:00 – 2:30 PM ET
GoToWebinar