Licensed Dispensing Optician and Human resources manager with over a decade of experience in recruiting, onboarding, performance management, employee engagement, and community involvement. Passionate about fostering a positive culture, diversity, and inclusion in the workplace. Proven ability to provide strategic human resources leadership and consultation, particularly within complex environments.
Overview
30
30
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Group HR Manager / Senior Manager
Miller Optometry Halifax / Ocean Optometry Inc.
03.2022 - Current
Oversee all recruitment activities and coach managers.
Manage job postings on all platforms.
Oversee payroll resource allocation and scheduling for efficiency.
Collaborate with owners and Operations Managers on new initiatives.
Develop HR policies, procedures, and forms.
Coach managers in communication and team feedback.
Oversee appraisals, rolling reviews, onboarding, performance management, and succession planning.
Handle escalated HR issues and terminations within NS Labour Standards.
Manage AIP endorsement and immigration-related activities.
Model inclusion, integrity, and transparency.
Support management in maintaining high customer service standards.
Facilitate rollouts of new policies and procedures.
Coach and support office managers in daily activities.
Participate in strategic planning, forecasting, and visioning.
Plan and facilitate quarterly training days.
Developed and implemented Code of Conduct and Ethics.
Navigated HR challenges within the healthcare sector, ensuring compliance with relevant regulations of professional bodies and associations.
Serve as optician, frame buyer, and onsite manager as needed.
Licensed Dispensing Optician / Office Manager / Senior Management Team Member
Miller Optometry Halifax / Ocean Optometry Inc.
10.2018 - 03.2022
Performed duties as a licensed optician.
Maintained staff schedules.
Collaborated with owners and General Manager on policy changes.
Developed and implemented a reopening plan during COVID-19.
Hired and trained clinic staff.
Managed accounts receivable and MSI billings.
Handled escalated customer service issues.
Participated in visioning sessions and developed company creed and employee promises.
Presented and facilitated training at quarterly company-wide training days.
HR Office Manager / Opticianry Student
Eyes on Optometry Group
08.2011 - 10.2017
Performed office duties, patient pretesting, and contact lens training.
Assisted patients with frame selection and lens recommendations.
Interviewed, hired, and trained staff.
Managed schedules and handled escalated customer service issues.
Organized geriatric off-site clinics and developed sales incentive.
Social Responsibility Coordinator / Product Development Coordinator / Merchandising Manager / HR Area District Manager
Wicker Emporium
09.1995 - 03.2011
Managed highest-grossing location for over 10 years.
Interviewed, hired, and trained staff.
Developed and managed social responsibility programs.
Researched and developed product lines and trends.
Managed inventory and pricing.
Developed employee engagement programs and sales training.
Education
Eyeglasses Sciences Diploma - undefined
Northern Alberta Institute of Technology
Retail Management Diploma - undefined
Holland College
Charlottetown, PE
Skills
Strategic planning in business and change management
Excellent communication and presentation skills
Problem-solving and critical thinking
Ability to work in fast-paced and stressful environments
Strong leadership and management skills
Employee engagement and communication
Consultative, influencing, and coaching skills
Mediation and conflict resolution
Proficient in HOMEBASE, Slack, Zoom, I-clarity, Mondaycom, Google Workspace, Microsoft Office Suite
Certification
Leadership Training and Team Building, University of Michigan (Distance)
Big ‘M’ Manager Certification Practice Building
Enhance your workplace with EDI (Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion), ISANS
Non-Violent Crisis Intervention, Crisis Prevention Institute
Up-to-date knowledge of Nova Scotia Labour Standards and employment legislation.
Accomplishments
Recruited and developed strong teams of licensed professionals in 4 clinics
Built strong customer loyalty and advanced brand reputation
Developed auditing programs for labor code and community engagement
Initiated employee bonus program for profit sharing
Other Experience
Board of Directors, Habitat for Humanity HRM
Volunteer Move Coordinator, Shelter Movers NS
Consultant, Global Greenhouse Gas Initiative Committee for Product Lifecycle Standards
Former Member, International Committee for Social Responsibility Auditor Standards
Volunteer, Adsum House - Emergency Shelter for Women and Children
Timeline
Group HR Manager / Senior Manager
Miller Optometry Halifax / Ocean Optometry Inc.
03.2022 - Current
Licensed Dispensing Optician / Office Manager / Senior Management Team Member
Miller Optometry Halifax / Ocean Optometry Inc.
10.2018 - 03.2022
HR Office Manager / Opticianry Student
Eyes on Optometry Group
08.2011 - 10.2017
Social Responsibility Coordinator / Product Development Coordinator / Merchandising Manager / HR Area District Manager