The current issue of the publication from the NY State Bar Dispute Resolution Section includes three articles about the Organizational Ombuds profession.

• Organizational Ombuds—Ensuring an Effective Dispute Resolution System by Randy Williams explains that an Ombuds program is an essential part of a resolution system that mitigates risk, protects reputation, reduces financial and human costs, complies with laws, regulations and policies, and fosters an ethical work environment;
• Organizational Ombuds: Competencies, Conversations and Case Management by Susan Casino highlights the specific characteristics and skill sets that distinguish exceptional Ombuds; and
• Profiles in ADR—Paths to the Same Amazing Job—Ombudsman by Laura A. Kaster incorporates interviews of three outstanding Ombuds to sketch the possible paths to the profession.

Randy Williams is currently a Managing Director of Redmond, Williams & Associates, LLC. Susan Casino is the Director of Ombuds Services at Apollo Education Group. Laura Kaster is Co-Editor-in-Chief of the NY Dispute Resolution Lawyer and a full-time mediator and arbitrator.  (NYSB Dispute Resolution Lawyer.)