Robert Van Cleef
Labour Activist
Mississauga,ON
Summary
Seasoned labour representative and organizational leader with over 30 years of progressive experience in union leadership, adult education, campaign management, and community engagement. Proven track record of fostering strong relationships across labour councils, local unions, and community organizations. Skilled in delivering education programs, coordinating campaigns, and driving community-based initiatives to elevate the labour movement’s profile.
Overview
24
24
years of professional experience
1
1
Language
Work History
National Education Staff Rep
Unifor
08.2015 - 10.2020
- Developed and authored curriculum for adult education programs tailored for union members.
- Coordinated and delivered area schools and workshops for local unions across Canada.
- Specialized in workplace health and safety, human rights, anti-harassment, shop steward training, and collective bargaining education.
- Fostered collaboration between local unions and labour councils to strengthen campaign delivery and member engagement
National Organizing Staff Rep
CAW/Unifor
04.2007 - 08.2015
- Designed and led organizing campaigns, successfully bringing thousands of new members into the union.
- Built strategies to engage workers and expand union membership across various sectors.
- Worked collaboratively with labour councils and community organizations to strengthen organizing efforts.
Vice President, Executive Board Member
Oakville and District Labour Council
09.1996 - 04.2007
- Advocated for labour issues through active participation in CLC and OFL campaigns and conventions.
- Strengthened community partnerships and elevated the labour movement’s profile.
President, Vice President, Trustee, Steward
CAW Local 707
07.1996 - 04.2007
- Directed the “Save the Ontario Truck Plant” campaign, lobbying all levels of government and mobilizing community and workplace support.
- Led collective bargaining efforts and workplace dispute resolution.
- Coordinated union education programs, empowering members through training on employment insurance, workplace health and safety, and shop steward roles.
- Represented Local 707 in broader labour council and federation events and initiatives.
Co- Chair
Oakville United Way
11.2000 - 11.2005
- Provided guidance and mentorship to junior team members, fostering a supportive work environment that encouraged professional development.
- Co-chaired campaigns for the Oakville United Way, strengthening ties between the labour movement and community organizations.
President, Treasurer
Halton Social Planning Council and Volunteer Centr
11.1996 - 11.2000
- Established a culture of accountability by setting clear expectations and holding individuals responsible for results.
- Supported project management team for optimal performance.
- Inspired innovation by creating an environment that encouraged creative thinking and problem-solving
Education
Certificate - Business
McMaster University
Hamilton, ONWork Place Adult Learning Trainer - Human Rights, Steward, Collective Bargaining
Discussion Leader Training
Port Elgin, ONSkills
- Strategic Organizing and Union Membership Growth
- Labour Education and Curriculum Development
- Workplace Health and Safety Training
- Anti-Harassment and Human Rights Advocacy
- Community Engagement and Public Speaking
- Campaign Management and Lobbying
- Media and Communications Coordination
Timeline
National Education Staff Rep
Unifor
08.2015 - 10.2020
National Organizing Staff Rep
CAW/Unifor
04.2007 - 08.2015
Co- Chair
Oakville United Way
11.2000 - 11.2005
President, Treasurer
Halton Social Planning Council and Volunteer Centr
11.1996 - 11.2000
Vice President, Executive Board Member
Oakville and District Labour Council
09.1996 - 04.2007
President, Vice President, Trustee, Steward
CAW Local 707
07.1996 - 04.2007
Certificate - Business
McMaster University
Work Place Adult Learning Trainer - Human Rights, Steward, Collective Bargaining
Discussion Leader Training
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