Wilfrid Laurier University recognized as one of Waterloo Region’s top employers for fifth consecutive year

For the fifth year in a row, Wilfrid Laurier University has been named one of Waterloo Area’s Top Employers through Canada’s Top 100 Employers initiative, an editorial competition that recognizes Canada's best places to work.

An annual competition recognizing leading national and regional organizations that offer “exceptional workplaces,” organizations selected for the awards develop and adapt policies to meet the changing expectations of today’s workforce. 

While the recognition is awarded at a regional level, it is based on Laurier’s efforts across its multi-campus locations.

“Laurier is an organization that values its employees and is committed to providing a positive and engaging employee experience,” said Pamela Cant, chief human resources and equity officer at Laurier. “We want to foster a work environment where faculty and staff can thrive, experience a sense of belonging, and feel valued for their many contributions to the university.”

As of Winter 2022, Laurier employs over 2000 full-time and part-time employees from across Canada. While the university was recognized as one of the top employers for young people, the median age of employees is 45.  

“At Laurier, we are committed to fostering an inclusive community and a key part of that is ensuring our employees have the supports they need to thrive both professionally and personally,” said Laurier President and Vice-Chancellor Deborah MacLatchy. “It is the quality and engagement of the people at Laurier that make it an exceptional place to work.”

Canada’s Top 100 Employers specifically highlighted Laurier's maternity and parental leave top-up for new parents, including adoptive parents, to 95 per cent of salary ranging from 10 to 25 weeks, and generous vacation, benefits, and leave allowances. The competition also noted the university's continued commitment to fostering an inclusive community through its Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion, and Indigeneity Action Plan, including hiring six new Black faculty members and four new Indigenous faculty members.