Calgary-headquartered Benevity has hired Janeen Speer as Chief People Officer.
Previously VP of Talent at Shopify, Speer joins Benevity’s executive team in this newly created role and will help build upon the company’s purpose-driven culture.
No stranger to scale, Speer most recently led a team of over 380 people at Shopify and supported the company in growing from 5,000 to 10,000 employees in 3 years. She has also held senior leadership roles at WestJet, Lululemon and Starbucks, all mission-driven brands focused on engaging diverse employees across international locations.
“With ESG trends, remote workforces and tight labour markets increasing demand for our solutions and services, it is critical for us to attract and retain exceptional talent. Our people and purpose-driven culture have powered our growth and innovation thus far, and are a key reason for our success and category leadership,” said Kelly Schmitt, CEO of Benevity.
Janeen’s appointment comes at a time of high growth for Benevity as the company looks to add 300 people this year, across several high-profile technology, product and client success roles. Her experience will help the company scale a hybrid workforce while ensuring that it retains its highly engaged and unique culture.
“Janeen is one of a kind, with deep experience in scaling talent, culture and innovation, and we couldn’t be more excited to have her on board. With her leadership, we will add new talent to further fuel our growth, while retaining our unique, strong culture.”
“I have grown my career in companies with a strong mission and culture, and having called Calgary home for more than 20 years, Benevity is a natural fit,” said Janeen Speer, Benevity’s new Chief People Officer.
“It’s exciting to support the growth of another Canadian-born company with such a compelling, purpose-driven culture, and also to be part of the growing technology sector here in Calgary. I am thrilled to be joining at this pivotal point in Benevity’s trajectory and look forward to working alongside this innovative and passionate team who, like me, believe in the power of great technology to transform the world.”
Janeen joins Benevity’s growing executive team along with other recent additions and appointments, including Chief Data Officer Jane Moran, who joined in March 2021; Chief Impact Officer Sona Khosla, who was promoted in February 2021; and Chief Technology Officer Steven Woods, who joined in May 2020.