Renee Mastalerz

About me

I was born/grew up in: Poland

I now live in: Oakville, ON, Canada

I completed my training/education at: University of Toronto, B.Sc in Life Sciences, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, Masters in Molecular Biology, LSE, London, UK, Masters in Industrial Relations and HR

What I do at work

I lead a team of Talent Acquisition Partners at Roche Canada, a global pharmaceutical company. I talk to people a lot! These are mostly candidates who are applying and competing for jobs. I also work with clients to understand their needs. I hire people who will fit into the culture of my company and meet our needs. I use a specialized software, applicant-tracking system, called Workday. I make decisions about which applicants to introduce to the hiring manager and assist managers with their selection decisions. Science and Math offer a great foundation and allow one to make inferences. Most innovative and progressive companies are happy to leverage STEM competencies.

My career path is

In general, my career path was formed by watching others and asking for help when I needed it. I was lucky that I got to work with great mentors and leaders. I changed careers and moved to new and different roles when I felt the time was right or when there was opportunity. As my career evolved, I went back to school to switch from Science to HR. I relocated from Poland to Canada twice and those moves were very challenging to my life and career. I needed to reinvent myself a couple of times.

I am motivated by

Talking to people. Listening to people. Seeing what motivates people. The learning mindset that means you can always acquire the new knowledge at every stage of your life is a great motivator for me.

How I affect peoples’ lives

I feel I can help people decide what role fits best with their talents, goals, and desires.  To me, an employer is like a family; you always want to make sure you hire the best people because you will eventually need to work very closely with them. 

Outside of work I

I love reading. I love hiking in the outdoors. I take part in relaxing activities such as solving puzzles and knitting. I also enjoy live theater and opera. I also spend as much time as possible with my kids who are now young adults.

My advice to others

Learn from others, talk to people, never say never, and keep your options open.