Sandra Smith likes to step back and look at the
big picture.
As vice president, Our People and chief human
resources officer (CHRO) at Southlake
Regional Health Centre in Newmarket, Ont., Smith
never loses sight of how human resources decisions
impact the entire organization. It’s a useful thing to
remember in her role, where she oversees people policies
that affect the hospital’s 3,000 staff members, 600
physicians and 1,000 volunteers.
Smith sat down with HR Professional to discuss
lessons learned during her 15-year career in human
resources, and shared her thoughts on the continuing
evolution of the profession.
HRP: How and when did you
decide upon an HR career?
Sandra Smith: I’ve had a few careers, but when I
started nursing I became involved with the union leadership.
I was interacting with human resources on a
regular basis, and learned a lot about the role of HR.
hr influencer
MEET THE HR INFLUENCERS:
Sandra Smith, ma, che, chre
By Lisa Gordon
In fact, it was the director of that HR team who talked
to me about careers in human resources. So, my career
evolved from my work in a union leadership role.
HRP: What was your first HR job?
SS: I was an HR generalist at Trillium Health Centre,
providing the full suite of HR services plus a sub-specialty
in compensation and benefits. I had worked on the floor
as a Registered Practical Nurse (RPN) for about six
years, and then moved into HR for nine years. Having
worked on the units delivering care to many patients, I
truly understood the business of the hospital. I think that
differentiated me as an HR leader in that industry.
HRP: Describe your job today.
SS: At Southlake Regional Health Centre, I am responsible
for all people practices across the organization,
including overseeing HR, occupational health, safety,
wellness, diversity, community relations, privacy and organizational
development. I am also the executive liaison
for our 200-bed long-term care facility, Southlake Village.
HRPATODAY.CA ❚ FEBRUARY 2015 ❚ 65