Workplace design, not just benefits coverage, may determine whether women remain in the workforce during menopause, according to new research from the University of Ottawa. Madeline Toubiana, professor and Desmarais Chair in entrepreneurship at the University of Ottawa’s Telfer School of Management, says many organizations focus on benefits coverage without examining the structural workplace barriers […]
In these uncertain times, there are strategic opportunities to implement mental-health polices, programs and services that provide tangible benefits for both employers and employees. Rebecca Gewurtz, occupational therapist and associate professor in the School of Rehabilitation Science at McMaster University Even during a challenging labour market, it’s important for employers to invest in employee mental-health […]
Adult literacy remains one of the most overlooked drivers of career advancement, says Melanie Valcin, president and chief executive officer of United for Literacy. “When we talk about literacy, we’re not just talking about basic reading and writing. Foundational skills also include interpreting information, communicating clearly, solving problems, navigating digital platforms and applying knowledge in […]
As cost-of-living pressures continue to shape employee expectations, holiday gift-giving in the workplace is becoming less about tradition and more about equity, flexibility and psychological safety. For employers, the challenge is balancing recognition with restraint at a time when discretionary spending feels heavier for many employees. At IKEA Canada, that balance starts with consistency and […]
The Toronto Blue Jays’ World Series run is giving Canadians more than thrilling baseball games — it’s boosting morale and creating a sense of connection that extends into workplaces across the country. For employers, a sense of shared experiences and belonging offers a simple, low-cost way to strengthen culture. At Toronto-based law firm WeirFoulds LLP, […]
Jane Standing’s innovation and commitment to employee well-being earned her recognition as the Human Resources/Benefits Professional of the Year at Benefits Canada’s 2025 Workplace Benefits Awards. The senior Canadian benefits manager at Amazon was recognized for the creativity and care she has brought to workplace programs and her dedication to ensuring employees feel supported and […]
Air Canada took home the DEI Program award at Benefits Canada’s 2025 Workplace Benefits Awards for embedding diversity, equity and inclusion into every layer of its organization. Judges noted the scale of its initiatives and the way the airline built inclusion into its governance, leadership accountability, talent development and employee supports. “This recognition is a […]
Bunzl Canada Inc. is supporting employee engagement while giving back to local communities through its paid volunteer days program. “The program was born out of a movement to create a social sustainability initiative aimed at fostering community engagement, environmental stewardship and an inclusive workplace culture,” says John Howlett, president of Bunzl Canada. “It reflects our […]
In the midst of the current backlash against the very concept of diversity, equity and inclusion, VHA Home HealthCare is reinforcing its decades-long focus on developing an inclusive workplace culture. “Our commitment to DEI is central to our people strategy, so we’re not backing away, but rather continuing to emphasize and double down on our […]
At the Nuclear Waste Management Organization, truth and reconciliation isn’t a side project, it’s a core value, says Alicia Flynn, the organization’s human resources manager. “We know that working with Indigenous Peoples, learning from Indigenous knowledge and applying those learnings to our work are critical to successfully implementing Canada’s plan for the long-term management of […]