Saskatchewan's Top Employers (2026) Magazine - Magazine - Page 13
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SASKATCHEWAN’S TOP EMPLOYERS (2026)
WINNERS EXPAND
Continued
That “DNA” is demonstrated by the
Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency, one
of this year’s provincial winners. “Employees see how committed we are to their
mental health, wellness and career
growth,” explains Laura Debassige,
vice-president of operations.
“[W]e have added
specific five-day
leaves, including
two with pay, for
employees to
pursue traditional
practices”
N.PERSPECTIVE/SPSA
– SHAUNA IRONSTAR, CHIEF PEOPLE OFFICER,
FIRST NATIONS BANK OF CANADA
Another winner, First Nations Bank of
Canada, has programs for personal and
professional development tailored
uniquely to its recruitment and retention
goals.
“Our comprehensive program is specific
to Indigenous talent, to attract top talent,”
notes Shauna Ironstar, chief people officer
at the Indigenous-owned bank. “For
example, we have added specific five-day
leaves, including two with pay, for
employees to pursue traditional practices.”
For private sector companies, especially,
there is also the opportunity to infuse their
overarching message of purpose and
belonging. “We have a real good story of
who we are and what we do,” says Ironstar.
Debassige emphasizes that, “When
people join SPSA, it’s because of the work
we do to keep communities safe.”
From a Top 100 perspective, Leung adds
that, although Crown corporations have
advantages to entice talent, “on core
benefits, the private sector understands
that they have to swim in the same pond in
terms of matching foundational benefits.
Where there are opportunities to distinguish themselves are probably in areas
like flexible work options, culture,
atmosphere, workplace design — just
opportunities to be a bit more agile in
those areas.”
This story was created by Content Works,
Postmedia’s commercial content division, on
behalf of Saskatchewan’s Top Employers.
The Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency works with municipalities and First Nations to bolster the resilience and capacity
of local communities in responding to emergencies.
