This award recognizes an individual who has worked in human resources (HR) management and, through the course of their career, has made significant contributions to, or impacts on, the HR community. The Nominee does not need to be a supervisor or manager.
Recipient
Darlène de Gravina
Assistant Deputy Minister, HR Services
Employment and Social Development Canada
Darlène’s career within the public service has been characterized by exemplary leadership and dedication to fostering positive change within and across organizations. From her early roles at the Department of National Defence and various other organizations, to her more recent position as Assistant Deputy Minister of the HR Services Branch at Employment and Social Development Canada, Darlène has consistently enhanced HR practices and promoted inclusivity. Since graciously taking on the role of the HR Council Chair in 2022, Darlène has significantly advanced the HR community through her authentic leadership and collaborative partnerships, driving modernization and engagement across the HR function.
Throughout her career, Darlène has championed innovative initiatives aimed at improving diversity and inclusion, harassment prevention and accessibility within the workplace. Her strategic vision coupled with her commitment to service excellence has led to tangible results, including the development of inclusive policies, targeted recruitment strategies and robust harassment prevention measures. Darlène’s impact extends beyond policy implementation, as she has played a pivotal role in mentoring and supporting emerging HR professionals.
Her contributions have been widely recognized within the HR community and by senior management, earning her admiration as both a leader and role model. Darlène leaves behind a legacy of excellence and integrity, embodying the values of compassion, inclusivity and professionalism that have defined her career within the public service.
“Through her exemplary leadership, Darlène demonstrates a commitment to excellence and integrity, serving as a beacon of professionalism within the HR community. Her holistic approach to leadership, coupled with her genuine compassion for others, set her apart as a leader worthy of admiration.”
Finalists
Cynthia MacAulay
Senior Advisor, Corporate Labour Relations
Veterans Affairs Canada
Cynthia, a Senior Labour Relations Advisor at Veterans Affairs Canada, has made significant contributions to the HR function over her distinguished 35-year career. With extensive experience in labour relations and staffing, along with a deep understanding of the acts, legislation and policies governing these disciplines, Cynthia has effectively supported colleagues, clients and senior leadership with hundreds of files. She has earned a well-respected reputation as a “go-to” HR expert across the department.
In recent years, Cynthia has been instrumental in managing several high-priority HR files, contributing significantly to the success of the labour relations function. Some of her notable accomplishments include the establishment of essential service agreements, strike preparation and the coordination of the National Labour Management Consultation Committee. Cynthia has expertly facilitated productive discussions between management and bargaining agents, and she played a key role in the implementation of the Hybrid Working Model.
Cynthia is known for her diligence and professionalism, consistently ensuring that her clients receive exceptional support in handling complex labour relations matters. While her extensive experience underscores her significant contributions, it’s Cynthia’s unwavering integrity, compassion and exemplary conduct that truly set her apart. She treats everyone with kindness, thoughtfulness and respect, embodying the qualities of a role model for all public servants.
“Cynthia’s commitment to fostering open communication, implementing fair practices, resolving conflicts effectively and ensuring compliance with regulations, has been instrumental in fostering a harmonious work environment across Veterans Affairs Canada.”
Gaétane St. Coeur
Human Resources Services and Systems Administrator
Canadian Food Inspection Agency
Gaétane began her career as a systems administrator at the Canadian Food Inspection Agency. Over the years, she advanced to become a human resources coordinator and supervisor at the HR Service Centre. She has taken the reins of the department with professionalism and expertise to excel in her profession.
Gaétane plays a crucial role in ensuring the entire organization operates smoothly and successfully. She works to solve problems behind the scenes, always striving for excellence and productivity. Her in-depth knowledge of key management systems enables her to offer advice and guidance on complex files. Many HR colleagues seek her advice, recognizing her ability to deep dive into situations to find practical solutions.
Gaétane is a committed and dedicated individual who is deeply devoted to the HR department and the well-being of its employees. She ensures that information flows seamlessly from the portal to the payroll system, ensuring that employees are compensated appropriately. Her collaboration with various departments to resolve data integration conflicts is essential. She is always available to help her colleagues and superiors, embodying the spirit of collaboration and support within the organization. Gaétane is truly a role model.
“Gaétane is definitely someone to emulate. She always shows leadership in discussions with her colleagues and superiors. She provides effective solutions to problems and approaches complications as challenges, which she always manages to overcome.”
