Barbara was contacted by Graham Packaging to manage the Human Resources function, including Health and Safety, for a 130-worker unionized plant: she reported to me in my capacity as Plant Manager. Barbara worked in a thorough and professional manner to review the status of a range of programs and labor relations issues, and quickly prioritized, addressed and documented various planning, benefits, training, WSIB and communications initiatives.
Through her openness and timely follow-through on commitments, Barbara built a high level of trust and credibility with senior management, union leaders and workers. When the difficult decision was made to close down our Canadian plant near Toronto, she created an effective employee support process to help minimize workplace stress, maintain productivity, and provide leads for many workers for new jobs in the area.
Announcing a plant closing, and then continuing to produce a product for four months, is a difficult environment for both salary and hourly personnel. The advice and counsel from Barbara was invaluable to me.
K Garrett (retired), Graham Packaging Co.