By Sammy Rosenzweig
In the world of human resources (HR), few names carry the same weight and wisdom as Frank Newman. With a career that spans five decades, Frank has become a model of people-first leadership, thoughtful mentorship, and the kind of professional growth that only comes from deep commitment to community.
This year, Frank celebrates 50 years of continuous membership with the Human Resources Professionals Association (HRPA), a milestone that reflects not just longevity, but impact.
This is the story of how one HR professional built a legacy of compassion and connection, grew into an organizational and community leader, and the lessons we can all take from his journey that continues today.
Starting Out: Building a Foundation in HR Since 1975
Frank began his HR career in 1975 at Texaco Canada. Back then, HR was called “personnel,” and records were handwritten on index cards. Even in those early days, Frank saw potential in the profession.
To strengthen his foundation, he pursued night courses at the University of Toronto and earned his Certificate in Industrial Relations, followed by a CHRL designation in 1978.
“I wanted to understand the theory behind the work I was doing,” Frank says. “That education gave me structure and direction.”
Finding Community and Opportunity
From the moment he joined the HRPA, Frank immersed himself in the broader HR community. Conferences, local chapter events, and learning programs weren’t just checkboxes. They were opportunities to connect, grow, and share ideas.
One defining moment came after attending a powerful presentation at an HRPA conference in 1998. Frank reached out to the speaker, Roz Usheroff, and that connection turned into a mentorship. With her guidance and coaching, he moved from an HR manager role into his first HR Director position. Frank and Roz continue to keep in touch today.
“That one relationship changed my career,” he says. “It all started with getting involved and reaching out for help.”
Leading with Heart, Before It Was Popular
While working at GlaxoSmithKline (GSK), Frank saw a gap in how employees were supported during personal crises. There was no clear policy for compassionate leave, so he created one and it ended up inspiring what would later become Canada’s Employment Insurance Compassionate Care Leave policy.
Today, that policy has helped tens of thousands of Canadians care for critically ill loved ones.
“Compassion is more important than ever,” Frank says. “HR has evolved from a top-down, directive function to one that puts people at the center. Today, strong leadership means supporting the whole person—their wellbeing, their growth, and their humanity—not just managing their performance.”
His leadership is rooted in values, not trends. He embraced a people-first approach long before the rest of the field caught up.
Paying It Forward
Frank never stopped evolving. He became one of only ten consultants in Canada certified in the Great Place to Work methodology. He led employee engagement and organizational change initiatives at Manulife, Texaco Canada, Semtech-Gennum, and GSK. Today, he runs a successful HR consulting firm, Newman Human Resources Consulting Inc., supporting businesses of all sizes across Ontario.
From accounting firms to non-profits, breweries to veterinary clinics, Frank and his team help leaders shape workplaces where people feel valued and heard.
He also continues to mentor young HR professionals, volunteer with community organizations, and speak at industry and community events.
Key Takeaways from Frank’s Journey
Frank’s 50-year career is filled with practical lessons for today’s HR professionals, whether you’re just starting out or looking to reignite your sense of purpose.
1. Invest in Your Learning
A strong foundation is essential for a lasting career. Credentials open doors, but it’s curiosity and continuous learning that keeps you moving forward. Frank’s commitment to formal education gave him not just qualifications, but the clarity, confidence, and perspective to grow into a values-driven leader.
2. Get Involved in the HR Community
Frank’s most pivotal moments happened because he showed up with purpose and intent. His dedication to learning, connection, and community moved his career forward, and to this day, he continues to give back with the same passion.
“The HR community isn’t just where your career begins. It’s where it’s shaped, challenged, and elevated. No matter where you are in your journey, it’s a lifelong source of connection, learning, and inspiration. The key is getting involved.”
3. Lead with Heart
Frank practiced compassionate leadership well before it entered the mainstream. His people-first mindset helped shape policy that supports thousands of Canadians, and throughout his career, he has remained a steadfast advocate for doing what’s right.
Looking Ahead
Frank sees HR as a career for life. Not because of a title, but because of what the work makes possible: more humane workplaces, stronger leaders, and a healthier world of work.
His 50-year milestone is a celebration of professional excellence, but it’s also a reminder of what’s possible when you combine knowledge, heart, and community.