Human Resource program for businesses expands to Summerside and area

by Gloria Welton

The Momentum HR program created by CBDC Eastern PEI about six years ago is now available to companies in rural central Queens County as well.

The program offers Human Resource Management advisory services to five companies per year in each of the two locations. It has been created to support Island entrepreneurs and businesses to help them manage their most important asset: their people.

The program was started in eastern PEI by Martina MacDonald, Executive Director, CBDC Eastern PEI. “Strengthening human resources is a vital link to business success, economic growth, and job creation,” says Martina.

“However, we live in volatile economic times, and change is inevitable. Over the last few months, we have dealt with lots of change, and the outcome for many has been remarkable. I am so excited to collaborate with the team at CBDC Central PEI to allow more business owners to access this much-needed resource.”

Martina says Human Resources was one of the most requested areas for assistance before the pandemic. “It has now skyrocketed to the top concern for many small to medium size businesses. It has never been more important for our office to be able to offer hands-on assistance. Businesses that participate in this program should see better-engaged employees, improved leadership, and increased productivity and management capacity.”

Welcoming new HR Specialists to CBDC Central PEI

CBDC Central PEI is excited to announce the hiring of Gabrielle Blanchard, Human Resources (HR) Specialist.

She holds a BSc Degree from the University of Prince Edward Island and is a graduate of Holland College’s Human Resource Certificate program.

“Growing up in a family of entrepreneurs and working in both rural businesses and the provincial government, her varied background will help her connect with business owners and build client success in the rural Central Queens region,” says Tina Dickieson, Executive Director, CBDC Central PEI.

Gabrielle says she looks forward to working with the staff team and the local companies. “I am excited to get to know the companies that will take part this year and learn about their needs and challenges. By working together, we will determine the best supports that need to be in place.”

The program is flexible and ready to assist with the following areas:

• Recruitment and selection
• HR planning and leadership
• HR policy manuals
• Employee and labour relations
• Organizational behaviour
• Compensation and benefits
• Training and development

The HR Specialists work with companies to ensure their Human Resources system is solid. “We work with businesses and entrepreneurs in all stages, whether companies are just starting up or looking to expand,” says Gabrielle.