What are some of the challenges you
experience on a day-to-day basis?
TN: It could be from an accident investigation or an employee
relations issue or a client process audit. Being an HR generalist
provides me with a diverse range of challenges. Human resources
is aligned with the strategic goals of the company, so we are forever
planning new, innovative ways to develop our people.
What skills do you possess that make you
a great fit for your position?
TN: I would say it’s my ability to communicate and negotiate. I
have to sell ideas to managers, colleagues, employees and owners
on a daily basis. When I started here, HR was pretty much nonexistent.
I had to communicate and negotiate new programs,
policies and procedures. It was a new mindset for the entire company.
Since we are a progressive company, I have to be innovative
and possess analytical skills.
What advice do you have for others interested in pursuing a
career in HR and specializing in occupational health and safety?
TN: HR continues to be a necessity in the success of any
business. Organizational health and safety is a broad and
ever-changing field. There are multiple dimensions including
technical, legislative, political and personal. If you’re looking
to pursue a career in HR, and specifically occupational health
and safety, I suggest you have a passion for it and believe in the
concept. You need to be a strong advocate of the subject and
possess strong communication and negotiating skills. You also
need the education to help you with the necessary knowledge
and skills. There will always be a demand for health and safety
in organizations and it will continue to play a key role in all
businesses globally.
Away from your busy job, what do you like to do?
TN: I like embracing Canada’s four seasons and enjoy the outdoors.
I love spending weekends at the cottage in Muskoka,
downhill skiing, water sports, walks and golfing – but only when
I play well! n
career paths
THERE WILL ALWAYS BE A
DEMAND FOR HEALTH AND SAFETY
IN ORGANIZATIONS AND IT WILL
CONTINUE TO PLAY A KEY ROLE
IN ALL BUSINESSES GLOBALLY.
Looking to hire?
FREE services +
+ incentives/supports
Next-Steps Employment Centres
Contact us today to get a customized
strategy to t your needs.
Don Mills
416-395-5101
Riverdale
416-396-2313
Dundas-Dixie
905-896-2233
Vaughan
905-851-6551
NEW! Canada-Ontario Job Grant available for employers
Operated by
Downsview
416-395-9559
Scarborough Rouge
416-396-8110
Mississauga
Meadowvale
905-814-8406
Monday to Friday
9 am - 5 pm
This Employment Ontario service is funded
www.next-steps.ca
NextStepsEmploymentCentres
@NextStepsEC in part by the Government of Canada
66 ❚ MAY/JUNE 2015 ❚ HR PROFESSIONAL