Leaders in People Strategy in Workplace Culture

Catherine Gordon Develops Inclusive Culture at Canuck Place Children’s Hospice


Catherine Gordon, Chief People and Culture Officer at Canuck Place Children’s Hospice, has implemented many policies and initiatives to create an inclusive workplace culture. These include ensuring staff complete the Psychologically Safe Leader Method Certification, annually offering interested staff 1:1 executive coaching through Fuse Coaching, and updating HR policies including robust paid maternity, bereavement, and special leave. She developed various employee workshops and development opportunities. Employees can attend an annual grief and loss workshop on supporting a colleague and team sessions on topics like vicarious trauma and burnout.

Canuck Place is a designated “Canadian Compassionate Company” due to their commitment to supporting staff. Reflected in Catherine’s work as a Certified Disability Management Professional. She maintains her skills in areas such as conflict resolution, workplace mental health, and leadership coaching. She implemented and facilitates the Anti-Racism Difficult Conversations Group, created a cultural safety plan for Indigenous partners, supports the work of Truth and Reconciliation Committee and started a DEIBCommittee and Psychological Safety Group. Catherine champions the People and Planetary Health Committee, and the organization participating in the Green+Leaders community. Her leadership practices include transparent and clear communication, and regularly soliciting employee feedback to meet their needs better.


  • Favorite Quote: You never know what someone is going through. Be kind always. - Catherine Gordon