Industry Canada Named One of Nation’s Top 100 Employers for 2011

Ottawa, October 15, 2010—Industry Canada has been selected as one of the nation's top 100 employers by the editors of the well-known Canada's Top 100 Employers competition. This special designation recognizes public and private sector organizations that offer an exceptional workplace.

"Industry Canada was recognized as one of Canada's top 25 employers in the National Capital Region last year, and now we are one of the top 100 employers in the country," stated the Honourable Tony Clement, Minister of Industry. "I am proud that my department has been chosen as one of Canada's best employers."

Now entering its 12th year, Canada's Top 100 Employers is an annual competition to recognize Canada's best places to work, and this is the first time that Industry Canada has won this award. The Business Development Bank of Canada and Statistics Canada, which are part of the department's Industry Portfolio, were also included in the top 100 list.

Industry Canada's selection was based on a detailed review of its operations and human resources practices in eight key areas: physical workplace; work and social atmosphere; health, financial and family benefits; vacation and time off; employee communications; performance management; training and skills development; and community involvement. To determine the winners, comparable employers are measured against one another to gauge which offer the best and most progressive programs.

"I am pleased that this department has been acknowledged as one of the most desirable places in the nation to work," said Richard Dicerni, Deputy Minister, Industry Canada. "Our designation as a top employer shows that our approach continues to provide employees with an environment in which they can thrive."

Industry Canada recruits over 130 new employees each year from outside the federal public service and has been promoting its interesting opportunities and mandate through its Work That Matters campaign.

"An organization is only as good as its workforce, and treating our people well is an important priority for all of us at Industry Canada," said Bill James, Director General, Human Resources Branch. "I believe our challenging and important mandate, interesting employment opportunities and our excellent leave and career planning programs foster employee retention."

Further information is available on the Canada's Top 100 Employers website.

For further information (media only), please contact:

Cécile Bourdages
Manager, Public Service Renewal
Strategic Human Resources Management Division
Human Resources Branch
613-946-7297

Media Relations
Industry Canada
613-943-2502