HRPA Northern Chapter
Welcome to the HRPA Northern Chapter
The Chapter Council act as ambassadors for the HRPA and the human resources (HR) profession, providing professional development opportunities, arranging networking and social events, hosting HR Power Lunch webinars, and facilitating ad-hoc volunteer opportunities. Chapter events provide members with the opportunity to develop skills and proficiencies, obtain CPD hours and build valuable connections with peers.
Chapter Councils also help promote and support HRPA initiatives such as the HRPA Mentorship Programs, HRPA Online Communities, HRPA Student activities and more. We encourage you to explore the HRPA website further to learn more about all that HRPA has to offer. We have included some helpful links below.
Whether you are a seasoned HR professional or a student who is looking to begin a career in HR, your Chapter Council and Chapter peers are here to support you!
Sincerely,
The Northern Chapter Council
Northern Chapter Map Boundaries
Leadership
Karen Ball, CHRL
Council Past Chair - Northern
Born and raised in Thunder Bay, Karen earned her Diploma in Business Administration – Human Resources at Confederation College. Along with her education, Karen holds her CHRL designation and has 20 years of experience in the Human Resources field. In her current role as Senior Human Resources Advisor at Tbaytel, she provides guidance and support in many areas such as performance management, policy development, recruitment and selection, psychological health and safety, labour relations, leadership, and employee training, as well as accessibility, employment equity, diversity, and inclusion.
Karen is passionate about fostering respect, fairness and equity in the workplace. In support of this, she is chair of the Employment Equity Committee, sits on the Accessibility and Respect Committees, and has volunteered in, and organized events for, employee led initiatives for the Heart & Stroke Foundation and the United Way.
Lori Lee Michaud, CHRP, CHRL
Council Past Chair – North Bay & Sudbury
With over 20 years’ experience as a Human Resource professional, Lori Lee Michaud is excited to continue volunteering with HRPA.
Lori Lee joined HRPA in 2004, obtaining both CHRP and CHRL designations. In 2014, Lori Lee relocated to North Bay and began volunteering with the local HRPA Chapter in 2016, most recently as the Chapter Chair.
Throughout her career, Lori Lee has navigated various industries, including Non-Profit, Retail, Telecom, Manufacturing, Consulting, Mining, and Transportation and has effectively collaborated in provincial, federal, unionized, and non-unionized environments, fostering relationships with employees and managers while addressing and resolving conflicts. Beyond her Human Resources expertise, Lori Lee holds a diploma in Sign Language Communication from Sheridan College and is currently working with Community Living North Bay as the Director, People & Culture.
Megan Johnson, CHRP, CHRL
Council Volunteer
Megan Johnson is an accomplished human resources professional with over 15 years of progressive human resources experience. She currently serves as the Director of Human Resources at Workplace Safety North, providing strategic leadership and guidance to ensure implementation of best practices in human resources management.
She holds a Bachelor of Science from McMaster University, certificate in Advanced Human Resources from Queen’s University, as well as Queen’s Advanced Executive Certificate from Queen’s Smith School of Business. She is a Certified Human Resources Professional (CHRP) and Certified Human Resources Leader (CHRL) through the Human Resources Professionals Association (HRPA).
As a past volunteer of the HRPA North Bay and Sudbury Chapter Board, Megan understands the value of giving back to the local HRPA community. She is interested in creating a rich member experience for all.
MD Ibrahim Abdullah
Council Volunteer
I am MD Ibrahim Abdullah, a dedicated volunteer with the HRPA Northern Chapter Council. Originally from Bangladesh, I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with a focus on Human Resource Management from North South University. My early experiences include serving as an event coordinator for the NSUHR club, where I organized events that connected students with industry professionals.
Currently, I am pursuing an MBA at Laurentian University in Sudbury, Ontario, while actively engaging in community volunteering. I have professional experience in the import- export-business sector, where I gained expertise in employee engagement and recruitment.
I am passionate about addressing the challenges HR leaders face today, particularly in talent retention and employee well-being. Guided by my values of honesty, integrity, and transparency, I aim to empower employees and foster a positive workplace culture.
Julie Salvalaggio, CHRL
Council Volunteer
Julia Salvalaggio, CHRL, is a seasoned Human Resources professional with a robust background in strategic HR management and organizational development. With a certification as a Certified Human Resources Leader (CHRL), Julia brings over a decade of experience in fostering workplace culture, enhancing employee engagement, and implementing innovative HR practices. Her expertise spans talent acquisition, performance management, and leadership development. Julia is known for her proactive approach to problem-solving and her dedication to driving organizational success through effective HR strategies. Passionate about mentorship and continuous learning, she actively contributes to professional communities and is committed to advancing the field of human resources.
Katerina Kmet, CHRL
Council Volunteer
Katerina has 18 years of dedicated experience in Human Resources, with a focus on employee relations, training, and development and much more. As a Certified HR Leader, Katerina is passionate about maintaining HR standards and driving continuous improvement within our organization.
She is dedicated to leveraging her expertise to make a positive impact in our community and collaborating with the chapter to achieve its goals.
Sankar Janardanan
Council Volunteer
Over 18 years of experience in full-cycle HR management, I lead a high-performing IT talent acquisition team, oversee project managers, and identify new business opportunities. As a former Human Resource Manager in Dubai, I managed recruitment, performance appraisal systems, and grievance management. I have supported HR functions across various industries, generating HRIS reports, resolving HR issues, and enhancing employee engagement. My goal is to improve HR functions for overall growth and success continuously.
Tori Vance, CHRP
Council Volunteer
I graduated from Laurentian University with a BBA, HR Management, and a Minor in Labour Relations. I hold the CHRP designation and was a chapter chair member of the North Bay/Sudbury board since May 2022. l am an HR consultant providing both internal and external HR services. I pride myself on being a collaborative communicator, excelling at building relationships and creating harmonious work environments.
Vishakha
Council Volunteer
An experienced Human Resources professional with a strong educational background and diverse industry expertise. Academically I hold an MBA degree in international Business & Diploma in Human Resources.
Nearing to a decade of experience, I have worked with companies like HCL Technologies and Times Internet. I am currently employed as a Training, Safety, and Compliance Officer at Patrick Mechanical – Patrick Group of Companies. My professional skills encompass talent acquisition, Learning & Development, Leadership development, Employee engagement, and aspects of business partnering.
In addition to my professional work, I am an active community volunteer in Sudbury, participating in various community events and assisting newcomer with resume-building and mock interviews. Volunteering and giving back to the community is passion that drives me to make a positive impact.
Karen Ball, CHRL
Council Past Chair - Northern
Born and raised in Thunder Bay, Karen earned her Diploma in Business Administration – Human Resources at Confederation College. Along with her education, Karen holds her CHRL designation and has 20 years of experience in the Human Resources field. In her current role as Senior Human Resources Advisor at Tbaytel, she provides guidance and support in many areas such as performance management, policy development, recruitment and selection, psychological health and safety, labour relations, leadership, and employee training, as well as accessibility, employment equity, diversity, and inclusion.
Karen is passionate about fostering respect, fairness and equity in the workplace. In support of this, she is chair of the Employment Equity Committee, sits on the Accessibility and Respect Committees, and has volunteered in, and organized events for, employee led initiatives for the Heart & Stroke Foundation and the United Way.
Lori Lee Michaud, CHRP, CHRL
Council Past Chair – North Bay & Sudbury
With over 20 years’ experience as a Human Resource professional, Lori Lee Michaud is excited to continue volunteering with HRPA.
Lori Lee joined HRPA in 2004, obtaining both CHRP and CHRL designations. In 2014, Lori Lee relocated to North Bay and began volunteering with the local HRPA Chapter in 2016, most recently as the Chapter Chair.
Throughout her career, Lori Lee has navigated various industries, including Non-Profit, Retail, Telecom, Manufacturing, Consulting, Mining, and Transportation and has effectively collaborated in provincial, federal, unionized, and non-unionized environments, fostering relationships with employees and managers while addressing and resolving conflicts. Beyond her Human Resources expertise, Lori Lee holds a diploma in Sign Language Communication from Sheridan College and is currently working with Community Living North Bay as the Director, People & Culture.
Megan Johnson, CHRP, CHRL
Council Volunteer
Megan Johnson is an accomplished human resources professional with over 15 years of progressive human resources experience. She currently serves as the Director of Human Resources at Workplace Safety North, providing strategic leadership and guidance to ensure implementation of best practices in human resources management.
She holds a Bachelor of Science from McMaster University, certificate in Advanced Human Resources from Queen’s University, as well as Queen’s Advanced Executive Certificate from Queen’s Smith School of Business. She is a Certified Human Resources Professional (CHRP) and Certified Human Resources Leader (CHRL) through the Human Resources Professionals Association (HRPA).
As a past volunteer of the HRPA North Bay and Sudbury Chapter Board, Megan understands the value of giving back to the local HRPA community. She is interested in creating a rich member experience for all.
MD Ibrahim Abdullah
Council Volunteer
I am MD Ibrahim Abdullah, a dedicated volunteer with the HRPA Northern Chapter Council. Originally from Bangladesh, I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with a focus on Human Resource Management from North South University. My early experiences include serving as an event coordinator for the NSUHR club, where I organized events that connected students with industry professionals.
Currently, I am pursuing an MBA at Laurentian University in Sudbury, Ontario, while actively engaging in community volunteering. I have professional experience in the import- export-business sector, where I gained expertise in employee engagement and recruitment.
I am passionate about addressing the challenges HR leaders face today, particularly in talent retention and employee well-being. Guided by my values of honesty, integrity, and transparency, I aim to empower employees and foster a positive workplace culture.
Julie Salvalaggio, CHRL
Council Volunteer
Julia Salvalaggio, CHRL, is a seasoned Human Resources professional with a robust background in strategic HR management and organizational development. With a certification as a Certified Human Resources Leader (CHRL), Julia brings over a decade of experience in fostering workplace culture, enhancing employee engagement, and implementing innovative HR practices. Her expertise spans talent acquisition, performance management, and leadership development. Julia is known for her proactive approach to problem-solving and her dedication to driving organizational success through effective HR strategies. Passionate about mentorship and continuous learning, she actively contributes to professional communities and is committed to advancing the field of human resources.
Katerina Kmet, CHRL
Council Volunteer
Katerina has 18 years of dedicated experience in Human Resources, with a focus on employee relations, training, and development and much more. As a Certified HR Leader, Katerina is passionate about maintaining HR standards and driving continuous improvement within our organization.
She is dedicated to leveraging her expertise to make a positive impact in our community and collaborating with the chapter to achieve its goals.
Sankar Janardanan
Council Volunteer
Over 18 years of experience in full-cycle HR management, I lead a high-performing IT talent acquisition team, oversee project managers, and identify new business opportunities. As a former Human Resource Manager in Dubai, I managed recruitment, performance appraisal systems, and grievance management. I have supported HR functions across various industries, generating HRIS reports, resolving HR issues, and enhancing employee engagement. My goal is to improve HR functions for overall growth and success continuously.
Tori Vance, CHRP
Council Volunteer
I graduated from Laurentian University with a BBA, HR Management, and a Minor in Labour Relations. I hold the CHRP designation and was a chapter chair member of the North Bay/Sudbury board since May 2022. l am an HR consultant providing both internal and external HR services. I pride myself on being a collaborative communicator, excelling at building relationships and creating harmonious work environments.
Vishakha
Council Volunteer
An experienced Human Resources professional with a strong educational background and diverse industry expertise. Academically I hold an MBA degree in international Business & Diploma in Human Resources.
Nearing to a decade of experience, I have worked with companies like HCL Technologies and Times Internet. I am currently employed as a Training, Safety, and Compliance Officer at Patrick Mechanical – Patrick Group of Companies. My professional skills encompass talent acquisition, Learning & Development, Leadership development, Employee engagement, and aspects of business partnering.
In addition to my professional work, I am an active community volunteer in Sudbury, participating in various community events and assisting newcomer with resume-building and mock interviews. Volunteering and giving back to the community is passion that drives me to make a positive impact.
Events
HRPA Events
Keep up to date with the latest HRPA events.
Sep17
Northern: IN-PERSON Sault Ste Marie Special Networking Event
Let's celebrate our successes in the HR field and the end of another fruitful year by reconnecting in person! The...
Learn MoreSep18
Northern: IN-PERSON Sudbury Location Special Networking Event
Let's celebrate our successes in the HR field and the end of another fruitful year by reconnecting in person! The...
Learn MoreSep25
Northern: IN-PERSON North Bay Location Special Networking Event
Let's celebrate our successes in the HR field and the end of another fruitful year by reconnecting in person! The...
Learn MoreOct10
Northern (Thunder Bay): IN-PERSON Navigating Constructive Dismissals and the Duty to Accommodate
This presentation will focus on two important aspects of the employment relationship, constructive dismissals and an employer's duty to accommodate....
Learn MoreOct24
HR Power Lunch: Managing Accommodations
This webinar will provide general guidance to help attendees understand the duty to accommodate, including an employer's legal obligations when...
Learn MoreToday’s HR leaders face many competing priorities— while reimagining the future of work and ensuring employees stay engaged, and more.
The HRPA is here to partner with you through this constantly changing landscape. We are dedicated to empowering HR professionals, ensuring that you, alongside our 24,000 members, remain equipped to respond in an ever-evolving world.
Joining the HRPA means becoming part of a dynamic community of HR professionals dedicated to ethical practice, continuous learning, and advancing the HR profession.
By giving you the tools you need to create positive change, we’re empowering members, inspiring prosperity, and reshaping the future of HR in Ontario and beyond.
The HRPA Mentorship Program encourages career growth and development by providing students – and HR Professionals who are early in their careers – with the opportunity to receive one-on-one coaching from more experienced Human Resources Professionals.
Volunteering at HRPA is a rewarding membership experience and volunteers are critical to the association’s continued success.
With the expertise and involvement of members, we create awareness of workplace issues, promote excellence in human resources management practices and provide services that support the HR community, knowledge-sharing and continuous professional development.
HRPA members and students are involved in a variety of volunteer service opportunities including:
- HRPA Board of Directors
- Committees
- Conferences, Forums and Summits
- Mentoring
- Focus Groups
- Adhoc Opportunities
- Outreach Initiatives
- Chapter Councils
The first step to volunteering at HRPA is registering in our volunteer services database. If your registration is accepted, you receive a notification. When an opportunity that matches your preferences and/or skills becomes available, you may be contacted directly with more information about the available volunteer role.