A message from Jacinda Reitsma, Vice-President, Administration and Finance.
I am pleased to announce the appointment of Michelle Hollis as the Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO) of the University of Waterloo, effective October 1, 2023. Michelle is currently Interim Chief Human Resources Officer at Waterloo, while also holding the role of Senior Director, Human Resources.
After moving to Canada from Scotland, Michelle started her career at Waterloo in 2010 and advanced throughout her career in the roles of HR Analyst; Assistant HR Director; and Director, HR Client Services. In 2021, she was promoted to Senior Director, Human Resources. In April 2022, she became the Interim CHRO. Prior to joining Waterloo, Michelle had worked in the manufacturing, publishing, IT consulting, and voluntary housing sectors.
Michelle holds a Master of Arts degree in Interdisciplinary Studies from Royal Roads University with a concentration in conflict analysis. She is certified in Procsi Change Management (ADKAR model) and Alternative Dispute Resolution, and is a Chartered Fellow of the Institute of Personnel and Development (FCIPD).
As the Interim CHRO, Michelle has used her exceptional relationship management and collaboration skills to effectively lead a team of over 70 HR professionals. She was a key leader during the institution's pandemic response, and developed the workforce planning model before establishing the workforce planning and analytics team. Michelle is committed to promoting a progressive, inclusive workplace culture that is future-focused with a goal of attracting and retaining a diverse workforce.
With over 30 years of international HR experience, Michelle is passionate about people and making the University of Waterloo a great place to work.
Please join me in congratulating Michelle on this important appointment.
I would like to thank the members of the interview search committee for their diligent work throughout this process.