MEET THE HR INFLUENCERS:
Alex Gallacher,
MBA, CHRE, ICD.D
ENABLER OF HUMAN CAPITAL
By Lisa Gordon
After a decade spent working in human resources for three of Canada’s
big banks, Alex Gallacher was looking for an entrepreneurial challenge.
In 2004, he and two partners established ENGAGE HR™, a
Mississauga-based consulting and outsourcing firm that delivers a full
suite of human resources services to HR professionals, employers, associations
and other private clients.
That was 11 eventful years ago – and today, Gallacher is celebrating 25 years in
the HR field. Now the sole owner of ENGAGE HR, he has assembled a strong
“A-team” of six staff members who are on pace to make 2015 the boutique consultancy’s
best year ever.
HR Professional caught up with Gallacher to discuss his role as “chief cook and
bottle washer,” and the rewards of “getting it right” for a diverse portfolio of more
than 100 clients.
When did you decide you wanted a career in human resources?
Alex Gallacher: In 1986, I had just finished my undergraduate degree at the
University of Western Ontario. I was working as a student placement officer for
60 ❚ OCTOBER 2015 ❚ HR PROFESSIONAL