Title: Director of Human Resources

Company: The Salvation Army

Location: Mississauga, Ont.

It was when Josie Delpriore was seriously considering law school she began dabbling in the human resources arena, and since then, has been in the field for 15 years. Currently as director of human resources for The Salvation Army, she puts forth her undivided attention and draws upon her ability to make others feel comfortable, which allows them to open up and speak candidly about themselves. The biggest challenge she has overcome is to continuously dispel the notion that HR is fluffy and a woman’s role. Ms. Delpriore found that establishing herself as a strategic business partner with the management team, while demonstrating the cost benefits, was the model for success. 

Ms. Delpriore prepared for her career by completing a university degree course and multiple professional developments courses in human resources. However, during her first human resources experience, she learned that she really enjoyed each role from labor relations, compensation, benefits and organizational development. Her greatest accomplishment was implementing a new computer system for all of The Salvation Army. This, too, has allowed Ms. Delpriore to use her business skills whilst creating a positive team atmosphere and implementing a strategic business partner approach.

One thing Ms. Delpriore would like to see changed in her industry is for people to view a nonprofit like a traditional business, and evaluate all the business and financial aspects in the same way. Another part of her goals is to broaden her network within human resources and continue to build on her well-rounded generalist skill set. Ms. Delpriore is inspired by her passion for HR and the staffs she serves.