Celebrating Glynnes Oldjohn-Manuel on Human Resource Professional Day

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In honor of Human Resource Professional Day on September 26, 2023, Recognition Professionals International (RPI) is celebrating several outstanding HR professionals and the impact they have on others and the recognition industry. HR professionals dedicate their time and talent to employee recognition, development, and training employees to help their employees and organizations thrive. As advocates for positive employee experiences, they are at the forefront of the recognition industry.

Meet Glynnes Oldjohn-Manuel, Human Resource Director at Achievement Awards Group

Glynnes is an accomplished HR Director with seven years of experience in the dynamic field of Human Resources. With a remarkable 25-year tenure within the same organization, Glynnes has been a steadfast advocate for fostering a culture of empowerment, training, and personal growth. Her journey in the world of the organization commenced with a role rooted in customer service, an experience that ingrained in her the profound significance of communication, collaboration, and teamwork. Over the years, Glynnes has consistently demonstrated her commitment to the development and well-being of the organization's workforce. Currently on the cusp of completing an Advanced Diploma in HR, with an expected graduation date set for December, Glynnes remains dedicated to her mission of enhancing employee engagement and driving continuous improvement within the organization. Her extensive background and unwavering passion make her a true asset in the realm of human resources.

How did you get started in your career?

I began my career in HR somewhat unexpectedly. Initially, I managed a contact centre with over 120 employees for nearly a decade. During that time, I was deeply committed to ensuring that our operations were conducted with compassion and in accordance with best practices. This commitment naturally led me to explore the field of Human Resources in greater depth. I realized that HR was not just about policies and procedures, but it also played a crucial role in shaping the employee experience and overall success of the organization. Consequently, I decided to pursue formal education and training to transition into a dedicated HR role.

What's your favorite part about working in HR?

My favorite aspect of working in HR is witnessing individuals embrace their personal and professional development journeys. It's incredibly fulfilling to see employees not only achieve their individual goals but also thrive in their chosen careers. HR plays a pivotal role in facilitating this growth by providing opportunities for training, mentorship, and career advancement. When employees succeed, it not only benefits them personally but also contributes to the overall success of the organization. Watching employees evolve and excel is a source of immense satisfaction and motivation in my HR career. It underscores the importance of HR as a catalyst for positive change within the workplace.

Glynnes has been an integral part of our organization, tirelessly managing the entire spectrum of HR functions with remarkable proficiency and commitment. Despite the challenges of overseeing a comprehensive HR portfolio with just one administrator, Glynnes has consistently demonstrated unparalleled skills and dedication.

Glynnes plays a pivotal role in managing every facet of HR, ranging from recruitment and onboarding to training, learning and development, and providing counseling and coaching support. Her ability to handle such diverse responsibilities while maintaining a high level of quality and effectiveness is truly commendable.

Glynnes' unique approach to management, characterized by "management by walkabout," exemplifies her commitment to staying actively engaged with all staff. She ensures she is aware of ongoing projects, workshops, and meetings, and is readily available to provide guidance and support, fostering a cohesive and motivated environment.
Glynnes' dedication to upholding our organizational values is exemplary. Her actions consistently align with our core principles, setting an inspiring example for her Exec team and inspiring others across the organization to embrace our shared values.

In addition to her demanding role, Glynnes is committed to her own personal growth and development. Her proactive pursuit of continuous learning and staying ahead of HR trends ensures that she remains a reliable and informed resource, always at the forefront of industry advancements.

Glynnes' willingness to collaborate and mentor others has significantly enriched our HR initiatives. Her inclusive approach allows colleagues to contribute and learn, fostering a collaborative and innovative work culture.

Glynnes Oldjohn-Manuel embodies the qualities of an exceptional HR professional and leader. Her multifaceted skills, unwavering dedication, and commitment to both the success of the HR function and the growth of herself and her team are truly remarkable. On National HR Professionals Day, we wholeheartedly nominate Glynnes for this recognition as a testament to her outstanding contributions, leadership, and impact on our organization, Achievement Awards Group.

–Lianne Booth, Achievement Awards Group