Tell us a little bit about yourself, your role in your business and about your company.
I am Tammy Forrester, CEO of Ronald McDonald House Charities Saskatchewan (RMHC- SK). I started at RMHC – SK and in the not-for-profit sector in August 2012, after having owned and operated my own business for 12 years. I joined the organization just as we embarked on a $12M capital campaign and expansion at the Saskatoon House from 13 to 34 guest rooms. For me, this was perfect timing to join the organization and get to know the mission in service to Saskatchewan families. It was at this point that we began our journey to create healthy compensation and benefits structures for an expanding and growing team of RMHC – SK.
Describe your culture. Why is your company a great place to work?
A few words that would describe our culture would be open, honest, and supportive. RMHC – SK has a staff of 30 individuals that are supported by over 200 volunteers regularly. Although there are a lot of moving parts when it comes to human resources, I believe the staff team feels supported, and most importantly surrounded by people all focused on the mission of helping and supporting families in this province. Aligning with a heart focused culture gives meaning and purpose to the work that we do.
Why does your benefits & pension plan matter? What’s the impact to your business?
Ensuring that we have a well-rounded benefits package that is supportive of all staff and their unique needs. This package includes but is not limited to a personalized health spending account and a matching RRSP plan in lieu of a formalized pension plan. These and other programs send a message to the staff team at RMHC – SK that the organization cares about and is investing in their current and short-term health needs while supporting them in the long-term.
What is your most creative/ unique reward or favourite workplace benefit?
A few years ago, on the advice of Andrea Hanson at Sutton, we changed the statement and concept of “Sick Day” to “Wellness Day” and I believe it has made a real difference in the mind of our staff and how they consider their overall health and wellness. It’s not about being sick and taking days off, it’s about doing what we need to do to stay well.
What advice would you have for other successful growing Saskatchewan companies in recruiting, rewarding and retaining top talent?
Find out what matters to people when it comes to their health and wellness and ensure that those suggestions and priorities are built into your overall benefits plan and compensation structure.