Sana Irfan Shaikh

Highly organized and detail-oriented professional with a strong work ethic and a dedication to achieving goals. Possesses strong communication and interpersonal skills with demonstrated ability to manage competing priorities and meet deadlines. Creative problem solver with strong analytical and critical thinking skills.

Co-Chair of Diversity and Inclusion Forum ( Statistics Canada, CRSB )

July 2023 - Present

• Stepped into leadership role within core committee of Diversity and Inclusion Forum during period of disarray, demonstrating proactive and solution-oriented approach to address underlying challenges.
• Conducted comprehensive assessment of committee's structure, processes, and dynamics to identify root causes contributing to its decline, including issues related to communication breakdowns, lack of clear roles and responsibilities, and low morale.
• Implemented strategic interventions to rebuild cohesion within committee, fostering supportive and collaborative team environment where members felt valued and empowered to contribute.
• Established clear goals, priorities, and expectations for committee, setting shared vision and direction to guide collective efforts towards achieving results.
• Implemented structured meeting agendas and communication protocols to improve efficiency and effectiveness in committee operations, ensuring that meetings were focused, productive, and inclusive of diverse perspectives.
• Facilitated and co-chaired regular committee meetings, ensuring effective communication, collaboration, and progress towards goals, while fostering an inclusive and respectful environment for diverse perspectives to be heard and considered.
• Fostered culture of accountability and ownership within committee by assigning specific tasks and holding members responsible for delivering on commitments, celebrating successes, and addressing challenges collectively.
• Provided ongoing support and mentorship to individual committee members, recognizing their unique strengths and contributions while also offering guidance and resources to help them overcome obstacles and develop professionally.
• Celebrated small wins and milestones achieved by committee, reinforcing sense of accomplishment and momentum towards larger goals, while also acknowledging importance of resilience and perseverance in overcoming setbacks.
• Transformed core committee into high-performing team that was united in its commitment, earning recognition from upper management for its revitalized energy, effectiveness, and impact.
• Facilitated events on topics to enhance employees' understanding and commitment to diversity and inclusion.
• Established partnerships with other committees to expand diversity and inclusion efforts across organization.
• Led planning and execution of events celebrating cultural heritage months, Pride month, and other diversity-related observances, fostering sense of belonging and unity among employees.
• Implemented comprehensive system for tracking committee progress, including key milestones, metrics, and outcomes.
• Presented committee updates and recommendations to upper management through formal presentations at quarterly Branch Management Meetings, effectively summarizing committee activities, progress, and achievements.
• Proactively identified opportunities to enhance efforts based on feedback from upper management, adjusting strategies and priorities as needed to drive meaningful progress.
• Developed extensive Charter of Respect, serving as a foundational document that articulates core committee's unwavering dedication to fostering a culture of inclusivity and respect. Additionally, led effective implementation of innovative policies and procedures derived from this charter.

Available Upon Request