Career Conversations Panel Series:
Discovering Careers in Human Resources Management
Thursday, January 19th, 2012
2:30 – 4:30 pm
Harry Crowe Room (Room 109 Atkinson College)
In partnership with New College.
Sponsored by York University Alumni Relations.
About the Event
Interested in a career in Human Resources Management? Want to meet York Alumni and other professionals working in the field?
Connect with professionals currently enjoying careers in Human Resources Management and get the inside scoop on what it's really like to work in this field. During this panel professionals will share their personal stories about breaking into the field, how their career paths took them from graduation to where they are now, what knowledge, skills and experience helped them succeed in their jobs and what types of opportunities are available in the field. The panel will be moderated by one of the Career Centre's team members and followed by an open forum where students will have an opportunity to ask the panelists their own questions.
Participating Panelists
Rodney Mano
Regional Human Resources Manager, Cineplex Entertainment
Alumnus: Bachelor of Human Resources Management, York University, 2006
I can honestly say I have yet to experience two days which are the same. Working in HR is extremely dynamic as you support people and the business in trying to deliver company objectives. However, everyone in their own way is different. I think this is what keeps me motivated. You need to constantly transform as a professional to deliver solutions while considering the factors which make us unique.
Stephanie Parker
VP Organization Effectiveness, Real Matters
Alumna: MBA Schulich School of Business, York University, 2000
I have worked in the field of Organization Effectiveness since 2000, first as an external consultant and now as a member of the Real Matters team - formerly a client. My prime objective is to enable everyone to maximize their potential, which in turn maximizes the success of the organization. I have been described as both highly empathetic and incredibly tough facilitator and coach by my clients and colleagues. In 2011 I joined the Real Matters team (Solidifi, iv3CUS and redihive™) as VP Organization Effectiveness where my mandate includes Talent Acquisition, Culture, Corporate Planning and Performance Management.
Robin Smith
2nd Vice-President, York University Staff Association
Alumna: BA Canadian Studies, York University, 2000
I am currently in my third term as 2nd Vice-President of the York University Staff Association, an independent union representing some 2,000 workers at York University. Prior to my work with YUSA, I was the administrator for the Centre for Research on Work and Society (a labour research institute) and coordinated the Working Student Centre (a student/worker advocacy centre). I am also actively involved in the (CCU) Confederation of Canadian Unions, a national body representing independent unions across the country.
Joanne St. Bernard-Honegan
Human Resources Business Lead, Kraft Foods Inc.
Alumna: BA Bachelor in Human Resources Management, York University, 2005
Stemming from an early passion in business, psychology and social work, I pursued and obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources Management from York University and a Master’s degree from the University of Toronto in Industrial Relations and Human Resources Management. During the second year of undergraduate studies, I secured a Human Resources internship at the Canadian headquarters of one of the world’s leading food and beverage manufacturers and upon graduation I accepted a full-time position with the company. I have had involvement in numerous community initiatives and currently serve on the board-of-directors for a not-for-profit organization. My passion for volunteerism was recognized when I was selected to be a torchbearer at the 2010 Winter Olympics.
Nicola Walters
Disability Management Advisor, Human Resources and Skills Development Canada
Alumna: BA Bachelor of Human Resources Management, York University, 2005
I graduated from the Bachelor of Human Resources Management program at York University in 2005 and the Master of Adult Education program from the University of Toronto in 2011. I have had the opportunity to work in a number of Human Resources disciplines within the private and public sector, such as Recruitment, Staffing, Classification, Organizational Effectiveness and Disability Management. What helped me to succeed thus far, in the field of Human Resources, was the opportunity to network and learn from colleagues and other professionals within my industry. I thoroughly enjoy working in Human Resources and I am looking forward to sharing my experiences further during the panel.
