Catherine Albert
Calgary,AB
Summary
Responsive Human Resources Business Partner with well-rounded experience in all functional areas of HR, including labour relations, employee relations, performance management, and disability management. Supports the business leaders through employee issues such as discipline, safety violations, workplace investigations and recruitment. Thrives on collaborating with leaders, employees, and union representatives to understand unique business needs and to establish genuine relationships as an indispensable partner.
Overview
15
15
years of professional experience
Work History
Human Resources Business Partner
FortisAlberta
11.2022 - Current
- Collaborated with various business groups, including Operations, Safety & Training, Engineering and Corporate Services, to provide expertise and guidance on HR policies, practices, and Collective Agreement interpretation.
- Partnered with leaders to provide feedback on employee issues or changes that may impact operations, culture and brand reputation.
- Coached leaders on effective strategies to proactively address workplace conflicts and performance management issues.
- Supported recruitment needs by assisting leaders with job descriptions, posting strategies, interviews and selection of candidates.
- Developed positive working relationships with union representatives.
HR Advisor Talent Services & Disability Management
FortisAlberta
01.2021 - 11.2022
- Guided business leaders through recruitment, selection, onboarding and organizational changes (approximately 200-300 per year).
- Streamlined recruitment processes by implementing effective applicant tracking systems and organizational tools for increased efficiency.
- Created and updated job descriptions, interview guides and recruitment process documentation.
- Developed strong relationships with hiring managers, ensuring clear understanding of position requirements and expectations.
- Conducted comprehensive interviews to assess candidate qualifications and cultural fit within the organization.
- Supported Disability Management programs to address employee medical concerns impacting absenteeism, Short- and Long-Term Disability and WCB claims.
HR Advisor Benefits
FortisAlberta
11.2014 - 12.2020
- Administered the Group Benefits Plan and Employee Share Purchase Plan to 1300 employees and retirees in a union focused environment.
- Enhanced employee satisfaction by effectively addressing benefit inquiries and providing timely resolutions.
- Provided expert guidance during benefit plan design reviews, resulting in optimized offerings for the workforce.
- Delivered informative presentations and created marketing material on benefit programs, enhancing understanding among employees.
- Streamlined benefits enrollment process for new hires, ensuring a smooth onboarding experience.
- Conducted comprehensive benefits audits, identifying errors and implementing corrective actions.
Account Executive
Manulife Financial
03.2012 - 08.2014
- Chief leadership and support of account management of 25 Corporate Group Benefit clients with total annualized premium of $120M.
- Administered all aspects of benefit management, disability strategies and processes, group benefits industry trends and legislation.
- Provided exceptional customer service, addressing client concerns promptly and effectively to ensure long-term loyalty.
- Negotiated contracts successfully, securing favorable terms for both the company and clients.
- Trained, mentored, and coached a team of Account Associates to increase retention, knowledge and overall accountably.
Account Associate
Manulife Financial
08.2008 - 03.2012
- Assigned to support Account Executives in building and maintaining successful client relationships.
- Developed strong relationships with clients through consistent communication, attention to detail, and proactive problem solving.
- Aided in the acquisition of new business by participating in finalist presentations and implementations.
Education
Human Resources Management Certificate -
Mount Royal University
Calgary, AB2023
Certified Employee Benefit Specialist -
IFEBP
Toronto, ON2015
Bachelor of Business Administration (Honours) -
Wilfrid Laurier University
Waterloo, ON2002
Skills
- Employee Relations
- Coaching Leadership
- Relationship Building
- Recruitment and Hiring
- Benefits and Disability Management
- Labour Relations
- Performance Management
- Project Management
- Training
Languages
English
Full Professional
Affiliations
- CPHR Alberta Candidate
Timeline
Human Resources Business Partner
FortisAlberta
11.2022 - Current
HR Advisor Talent Services & Disability Management
FortisAlberta
01.2021 - 11.2022
HR Advisor Benefits
FortisAlberta
11.2014 - 12.2020
Account Executive
Manulife Financial
03.2012 - 08.2014
Account Associate
Manulife Financial
08.2008 - 03.2012
Human Resources Management Certificate -
Mount Royal University
Certified Employee Benefit Specialist -
IFEBP
Bachelor of Business Administration (Honours) -
Wilfrid Laurier University