human resources

Our vision is to have the happiest people in retail, and that’s why our team of caring human resources professionals support us every single day. By partnering closely with stores and head office teams, they guide and engage us throughout our employee journey – from recruitment and onboarding to training and career development. Thanks to our HR partners, we’re able to bring mindfulness to work every day, so our teams can create meaningful connections, lead with intention and kindness, and be their best selves at work and in their lives.

Michelle

HR Business Partner
Years at Ardene: 2



Favorite quote: "I know what I want isn't impossible"

The last book you read:
All These Beautiful Strangers by Elizabeth Klehfoth

Your hobbies:
Cooking, traveling & watching way too much reality TV

Favorite musician:
Justin Bieber (I was in the top 0.05% of his listeners on Spotify in 2020)

Favorite food:
Popsicles and ice-cream! I love basically any frosty treat

Ideal vacation:
A sunny city that allows for both times of relaxation and fun adventures!

Something you can't live without:
My family and friends

Q.
What's a typical day at work for you?

A.
A typical day for me involves speaking with candidates who apply at Ardene. I partake in the whole recruitment process from the moment the job is opened, to the moment the role is filled and the candidate has their first day at Ardene! I support the entire journey of our candidates. I also partner closely with hiring managers at head office to support any recruitment needs on a daily basis, and I assist and support all employee relations.
I spend lots of my time collaborating with people in the business in multiple departments!

Q.
How has your role evolved since starting at Ardene?

A.
When I first started at Ardene, I took care of hiring for stores for all of Quebec, Alberta and British Columbia. I managed our applicant tracking system and supported candidates in those specific regions for their applicant process. From there, I was promoted to an HR Advisor. During that time, I supported the complete configuration and implementation of a new application tracking system. It was a huge project that came with lots of learnings and success! After that, I was promoted to HRBP at Head Office. It has been challenging and exciting to learn more about the business as my career grows at Ardene.

Q.
What's your favorite part of working at Ardene?

A.
The people and the values the company stands for. I think that my team has provided me with unconditional support and laughter throughout my two years at Ardene. It has been such an incredible experience working alongside people who are such great collaborators and have amazing personalities. I truly feel like we are all part of a family, and we all complement one another!
I also love that Ardene gives back to the community and planet through the Ardene Foundation. I think that it is really impactful to work for a company that extends beyond the walls of the office and our stores.

Q.
What advice would give to someone starting a career in your field?

A.
What you want is not impossible! Seize opportunities and use your network to find the right place for you. Find a team that supports you and believes in you. Also believe in yourself! There will always be challenges in your career, but work hard, collaborate and have fun doing it! Find a place where you really feel like you are appreciated and the rest will come with time and knowledge.

Q.
What is your favorite Ardene memory?

A.
Cake day! I honestly love when we go to the cafeteria on the last Friday of each month and get to see everyone and have cake. It's such a nice way to end the week/month and a great opportunity to see colleagues and socialize. It will forever be one of my favorite Ardene memories!

Q.
Do you have a mentor or someone you look up to at work?

A.
I look up to both Martine and Fil on my team. They have been exceptional leaders who really have believed in me since the moment I joined the team. They both have many years of experience in the HR field and are always willing to share their knowledge. I look up to them because their support and patience has helped me grow my career. Their positive mindsets have been a true inspiration.