We are delighted that Carla will be speaking in Toronto this October as part of our Wellbeing at Work Summit Canada.
We caught up with her to find out how she’s feeling in the run up to the summit.
Hi Carla, we are thrilled you will be speaking at our Wellbeing at Work Summit Canada in October. Our first and most important question is, how are you doing today?
I’m fantastic! With summer in full swing, getting outside more and enjoying the fresh air has been lovely. I’ve enjoyed seeing some of our Associates in person at team barbecues and other events. It’s just such a wonderful time of year.
As a leader based in the region, what are the main challenges you are facing when it comes to employee wellbeing?
We have been fortunate when it comes to employee wellbeing because it’s been a priority for over a decade. Our CEO, Jay Woo, oversees the program, which is rooted in achieving measurable results for people. We are very focused on chronic disease management and ensuring that Associates have the knowledge and tools they need to stay healthy over the long term.
What strategies have you seen developing over the past 6 months, both internally and externally, that are moving the dial on wellbeing in the workplace?
A couple of things make a big difference for us when it comes to wellness. The first is making data-driven decisions about programming. We have a clear strategy and the measurement framework to support it, and that is critical to achieving success. The second is around engagement and keeping wellbeing top of mind. We have an excellent wellness app with high usage and adoption, as well as an Associate forum where people can ask experts questions. Meeting people where they are when it comes to wellbeing is incredibly powerful.
Why is employee wellbeing so important to you personally?
Wellbeing encompasses much of our day, including mental, physical, emotional, and professional elements. I’ve always advocated for supporting our Associates’ health because it directly impacts our ability to do our best work. We are a care-driven organization, and that includes supporting our Associates’ overall wellbeing.
What are you most looking forward to about the Summit in October?
I’m really looking forward to connecting with industry peers on our panel about building resilience in challenging times. With over twenty years of experience as an HR leader, I’ve seen my fair share of challenges, but compassion, honesty, and a sense of belonging help people make it through any challenge with the most success. I’m looking forward to hearing how we can build resiliency together from both my fellow panelists and the attendees.
Tell us, what is your vision for the future workplace, in terms of engagement, health and wellbeing?
I envision a future where organizations embrace the idea that wellbeing encompasses a multitude of factors —from job performance and career growth to personal and family health—and that we are stewards of a culture that facilitates success and fulfillment.
Through purpose-driven work or life-long learning and development opportunities, we must recognize the importance of providing our people with the right resources to succeed in their personal and professional lives.
What areas do you think employers should be focused on over the next 12 months?
We are all still evolving as we adapt to new ways of working in a hybrid environment. Taking a hard look at the overall Associate experience is critical to sustained success for organizations in the coming years. We need to find ways to foster a sense of connection and belonging while maintaining productivity and engagement. All these pieces contribute to wellbeing.
How has your organization been leading the way?
Wellness is part of our culture at Echelon and our parent organization CAA Club Group of Companies. Our Jaunt wellness program is award-winning and truly makes it easier for Associates to prioritize their health and financial wellbeing while achieving their professional goals. We offer access to an in-house Wellness team, weekly classes, a wellness Q&A forum, a wellness mobile application, and industry-leading partners to ensure we provide solutions that meet our Associates’ needs. We go above and beyond by supporting not just our Associates, but their families as well, with extended benefits and offerings. With the personal endorsement of our CEO at the helm, our wellness program continues to grow and thrive, seeing exceptional participation across the organization.
Carla will be speaking in Toronto at the Wellbeing at Work Summit Canada which takes place live and in-person in Toronto and Calgary with an additional day of virtual sessions too. Further details on the Summit can be found here.
