Jacqueline Harris

About me

I was born/grew up in: Saskatoon, SK

I now live in: Calgary, AB

I completed my training/education at: BA Communications; Property Management/Real Estate License; Community Invest Certificate all from Mount Royal University. Certified Event Management Professional, Canadian Institute of Certified Meeting Planners

What I do at work

I work for Chevron Canada. We partner with not for profit organizations to deliver programs and services needed in the communities where we operate. One of the things I do is to manage these partnerships with organizations across Canada. I connect our employees to volunteer opportunities with these organizations. Creating ways to share the work we do with partners is also one of my roles. These items could be for internal or external communications. I also manage our annual Social Investment budget, contracts, reporting and strategy.

My career path is

I have a BA in Communications from MRU. I entered this path first by volunteering for many years with a variety of organizations. Through this experience I gained insight into how the not for profit sector works. I also gained my first paid work experience in the not for profit sector. The jobs I had in this sector were very diverse. This allowed me to try new things that otherwise I would not have been exposed to. From there I held a broad range of positions in multiple sectors and roles. This include Marketing & Sales, Communications, Media Relations, Government Relations, Fundraising, Events and, most recently, Social Investment.

I am motivated by

I get to test new ideas and get input from the people we work with. Collaborating with stakeholders motivates me to find ways to improve our Social Investment Strategy. Being able to learn new things about a diverse number of topics, keeps me engaged. Listening to and helping others achieve something that is important to them is a great feeling. Being able to make a difference in the communities where we work, motivates me to contribute.

How I affect peoples’ lives

I love my job because I get to work with amazing people! These are people who have dedicated their career to helping others who need it. They inspire me every day to do more to make a difference in the communities where we operate. I get to create and share opportunities for our employees to work with community partners. This gives our employees a sense of connection, belonging and contribution to something bigger than themselves.

Outside of work I

I enjoy bringing people together outside of work. I also enjoy spending time with the people I care about. Staying physically active is a priority for me. I enjoy a variety of activities such as hiking, yoga, biking and paddle boarding. I continue to volunteer outside of work with not for profit organizations.

My advice to others

Volunteer and Network – from the beginning of your career to the end. We learn from others and do our best work when part of a community of like-minded individuals. Seek to develop a diverse set of skills. Be willing to try new things. Develop your public speaking, writing, and teamwork skills. No matter what job you do, these are critical skills that will distinguish you from your colleagues.