Erica Paradis

About me

I was born/grew up in: Hamilton, ON

I now live in: Ottawa, ON

I completed my training/education at:  I have an Honours B.A. in History from McMaster University. I also have a certificate in Human Resources Management from Algonquin College

What I do at work

I am the HR (human resources) manager for the Catholic Centre for Immigrants. In this role, I provide HR support for about 120 employees. That includes hiring and interviewing, as well as reviewing timesheets. I also write policies, develop compensation strategies, and provide strategic support. I make sure our organizational policies and compensation are in line with other similar organizations. I also make sure that we are following relevant legislation. I use math a lot to budget for activities and determine compensation.

When I make decisions, I consider all the factors before I make a decision. I work as a team in almost every task I perform. To be successful in my job, I need to collaborate with every person in the organization. I need to know what staff need to do their jobs well. I try to find creative ways to provide what they need so they succeed in delivering the organization's mission.

My career path is

My history degree helped me find a job at a non-profit organization. I researched and wrote wellness articles while there. It helped me to gain transferable non-profit experience. I also worked in an organization developing human resources tools for non-profits. This is where I found my love of HR. I completed my HR certificate online part-time while working in a support role at a women's shelter. Check my LinkedIn profile for more information on my career path.

I am motivated by

I love the amount of problem solving I get to do. Someone comes to me with a problem, and I find interesting ways to solve it and make everyone happy! I like working on budgets. Everything needs to add up so you know when you've found the right solution. I love my career because I get to use my love of business while helping people. I don't know much about providing settlement services, but I know I'm helping to deliver them by helping the staff at CCI.

How I affect peoples’ lives

I love that my job means I spend a lot of time finding new ways to support the employees in my organization. I look for ways to help them make the most of their benefits program. I also get to find ways to make sure we compensate our employees in the best way possible.

Outside of work I

I enjoy playing board games and video games. I like to read, particularly Scandinavian crime thrillers. I also like to play piano, paint, cross-stitch, and make models.

My advice to others

Find ways to practice your skills. Consider requesting an unpaid leave of absence to take short-term contracts to gain HR experience.