Breaking Away from Traditional Working Models

In the November issue of Canadian SME Magazine, Medavie’s Chief Human Resources Officer Greg Bambury shared his thoughts on how the pandemic has impacted the workplace and the incentives that employers should offer attract and retain talent. The following are excerpts from his article.

Greg Bambury

Talent recruitment and retention

Whether it’s a work from anywhere or hybrid model, greater access to mental health resources or increased paid sick leave, Canadian business owners must proactively adapt what they are offering — or face employee turnover which impacts productivity, innovation and revenue.

Employers need to design work life with flexibility and choice at the forefront.

Remote work and office culture

We have all been hearing about the “great resignation” in Canada and COVID has been a catalyst for rethinking every aspect of life.

The shift from bricks and mortar to remote work is changing the office culture dynamic and opening the job market in new ways.

Purpose-driven organizations

We believe employees are increasingly looking to work for an organization with a strong purpose and values that align with their own. As a trusted health solutions partner, it is our aim to foster a culture that promotes openness, understanding and flexibility.

We want our team to feel valued and champion a healthy work environment that allows everyone to have a voice and bring their true selves to work.

Benefits to meet diverse needs

Employers need to take stock of their workforce and offer benefits, incentives and wellness programs that reflect a diverse employee culture with varying interests and needs.

Optional benefits, personal wellness and health spending accounts should be considered as part of recruitment and retention plans too. And equally as important is providing employees with access to innovative, expanded virtual care options to ensure they can receive care when and where they need it.

Investing in incentives

People-first organizations set the bar high. They build with purpose, grow and innovate, and are more productive and profitable.

Investing in employees and their wellbeing is not only the right thing to do, it’s also a competitive advantage.

From small local businesses to those with a national reach, it’s time for Canadian leaders to empower their employees with the tools, resources and benefits they need to thrive and flourish.

Read the full article in the November issue of Canadian SME Magazine.


Our Mission is to Improve the Wellbeing of Canadians.

Medavie is a health company that oversees Medavie Blue Cross and Medavie Health Services. Together, we’re bringing Canadians better health and access to care.