A process is provided for the synthesis of an amide. A primary or secondary amine and a primary alcohol, with the amine and the alcohol being either moieties of different reactants or moieties of the same molecule, are contacted in the presence of a Ruthenium (II) catalyst. The Ruthenium (II) catalyst is free of a phosphine ligand. The process is also carried out in the absence of a phosphine. Providing the Ruthenium (II) catalyst includes providing an N-heterocyclic carbene.