continue to learn about businesses I have never been exposed to
previously. The one common theme among all of our clients is the
desire to improve the way they recruit and manage talent.
What skills do you possess that make
you a great fit for your position?
SP: I would say some of my core skills that have contributed to my
success are problem solving, perseverance, influencing, partnering,
networking, learning and understanding, as well as my upbeat
style of communication. I also make it a point to not take myself
too seriously. It’s very important to have a sense of humour and appreciate
that we are in a human business.
What does a typical day at work for you look like?
SP: There is rarely a typical day at work for me, which is one of
the great things about my role. Every day often begins with a new
challenge with a new client and an opportunity to improve the way
they recruit and manage their talent. To be successful, an organization
like ours cannot have an “off the shelf ” or “one size fits all”
approach to developing the right solution for our clients.
What are some of the challenges you
experience on a day-to-day basis?
SP: It often has to do with an organization’s poor level of investment
in their recruitment practices. I work directly with our
clients to ensure they have the right level of education, investment,
training, tools, measures and data to properly equip the business
and the recruitment team to be successful. My philosophy
is centered around the premise that every open position is an
opportunity to upgrade your talent and positively impact your organization’s
bottom line.
What are your ultimate career goals?
SP: My goals are all related to progressing and elevating the
recruitment and talent acquisition function in Canada. I see
very few organizations in Canada making the appropriate level
of investment into their recruitment and talent acquisition
functions, and I will continue to be an advocate for new, progressive
and innovative approaches to hiring the best talent for
an organization.
What advice do you have for others interested
in pursuing a career in recruitment?
SP: Join a great organization where HR is viewed as a true business
partner. Work hard and build relationships across the
organization and opportunities will continue to come your way.
Always look for an opportunity to add value in your role.
A great HR leader once gave me what I consider the best advice
I ever received. He said, “Never be afraid of stepping outside your
comfort zone. That is the only way you will ever truly develop.”
I have been looking for ways to step out of my comfort zone ever
since and have learned a lot about myself along the way. n
career paths
62 ❚ FEBRUARY 2015 ❚ HR PROFESSIONAL