Sheri Hamilton, CPHR was elected by the CPHR BC & Yukon membership to join the Board of Directors in June. She is an award-winning HR leader with expertise in developing and implementing HR plans, policies, and programs to support an organization’s strategy. With more than 25 years as an executive HR leader, she is passionate about championing HR best practices to support culture and employee engagement.

At Moxy HR, Sheri works as an associate consultant, collaborating closely with clients to provide customized and cost-effective people strategies tailored to the needs of small and mid-sized businesses and non-profits. Sheri has a Diploma in Human Resources Management (Honours) from BCIT and an MBA in Human Resources Management from Royal Roads University. In 2019, she earned CPHR’s 2019 Award of Excellence HR Professional of the Year.

Sheri’s collaboration on the Corporate Mom’s Learning Series was nominated as an Innovation Finalist (2010) by the Human Resources Management Association for providing return-to-work coaching aimed at increasing the retention of new mothers. Sheri was a two-term member of the Okanagan College Foundation Board and was appointed to the Board of Governors of Okanagan College for a one-year term, effective 2024.

In addition, she is a proud mom to Sophie and Fynn and is an avid recreational runner and CrossFitter.

We had an opportunity to speak with Sheri to learn about her professional background, as well as her motivations to become a Board Member. Her thoughts are shared below:

Sheri Hamilton, CPHR – CPHR BC & Yukon Board Member

What was it that sparked your HR journey?

My HR journey began back in the late 1980s, a time marked by economic recovery following a significant recession with high unemployment. As a young professional entering the workforce, I experienced firsthand the challenges of finding meaningful employment due to the competitive labour market.  During this period, I also encountered some questionable people practices that stirred something in me – a desire to make positive change in people management practices. 

How has that changed or stayed the same in the years since?

My core motivation to make a meaningful difference through HR has remained constant over the years. However, the focus of where I believe I can create the most impact has evolved. Today, I find myself drawn to non-profit spaces, smaller employers, and Indigenous-led organizations. These sectors face unique and significant challenges, which means that people-centered HR and wellness practices can be incredibly impactful in these organizations. This shift has reinvigorated my passion for HR to drive positive change where it is needed most.

How did CPHR BC & Yukon help you along your career path?

A significant milestone in my journey was winning the 2019 Award of Excellence HR Professional of the Year.  It was a lovely recognition, but it also opened up some valuable networking opportunities for me and allowed me to forge some lifelong connections.  In addition, the ongoing professional development supported by CPHR BC & Yukon has really stood out for me.  It supports my foundational knowledge but also emerging trends in the field.

What advice would you give to HR professionals who are looking to further develop their skills and experience?

My advice to HR professionals is to approach this career with both passion and pragmatism.  The work is challenging – it requires resilience, adaptability, and strong ethics.  Be prepared to have some really difficult conversations.  There were times when my professional integrity was tested because HR operates in a complex space and a challenging crossroads of stakeholders.  Don’t let that deter you!

What inspired you to become a Board Member of CPHR BC & Yukon?

After years of experience in the HR field, I felt that joining the board was the next interesting step in my career journey. I’ve been becoming more involved in governance over the years professionally and in volunteer work, and I have always been intrigued by the mechanics of organizational governance, and this role presented an exciting opportunity to explore that interest further.  I also think it is fun to learn new things, and this Board gives me that opportunity.

What are your priorities as a Board Member of CPHR BC & Yukon?

As a Board Member, I am committed to making a meaningful difference. While I don’t have specific priorities, I am particularly drawn to how we can support HR members in rural areas, as these small HR teams often face very unique challenges that those in larger centres may not have.   Secondly, I am interested in exploring how we can better serve the Indigenous space.  I believe we have a continuing responsibility to acknowledge and address the historical and ongoing impacts of colonization on Indigenous people.  HR leaders are in front row seat during a  important place in time where we can help create more respectful and inclusive workplaces through a responsible approach as we address systemic issues.

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