As an Organizational Development and Engagement Specialist for the Arts Service Centre – HR, Chris Tickell spends his days improving how we work together —most recently by overhauling the faculty’s staff performance and development review process to support more valuable, growth-oriented conversations between managers and employees.
In this interview, he talks about recharging through cold ocean dips, learning Spanish for a trip through Costa Rica and Nicaragua, and how small actions like going for coffee with an old colleague can open doors you didn’t even know existed.
Title: Organizational Development and Engagement Specialist
Department: Arts Service Centre – Human Resources
Describe what you do at UBC in 10 words or less: I develop processes and programs that improve staff work and culture.
What’s a project or work achievement you are most proud of? Why?
For the last year, one of my major projects was launching the new Staff Performance and Development Review process. I know, performance reviews aren’t exactly everyone’s favourite process, so I definitely had my work cut out! I’m proud of what we developed and I’m sure it will continue to evolve.
We took time to understand how staff felt about it and what they wanted from it. Using this to design a new process that was just as much about helping managers and staff align on clear priorities and what good performance meant to them, as it was about reflecting on the work completed.
By providing a transparent and consistent framework in which to discuss performance I hope this leads to more honest and meaningful discussions that ultimately improve working relationships and support individuals in their growth and development.
As humans, I believe we all have the desire to grow, the hope of creating a positive impact on those around us and the need to been seen and appreciated for who we are and what we do. A meaningful performance process should help facilitate this in the workplace.
How do you like to recharge?
That really depends on what type of recharge my mind or body needs! In the last few years, I’ve really needed to find ways to decompress and ground myself. Meditation, walks in Stanley Park, cold dips in the ocean and working out have really helped me feel balanced. On the flip side, I also recharge through getting inspired by other cultures and the natural world. I’m currently learning Spanish through UBC’s extended learning and planning a trip to Costa Rica and Nicaragua to enjoy their beautiful landscapes, wildlife and cultures.
What is the most important lesson you have learned in your career?
Listen to your gut, trust yourself and take that leap of faith. We’ve all experienced a situation in our career where our current role or workplace is making us deeply unhappy; but the fear of change or the risk of uncertainties keeps us showing up day after day hoping things might improve. Don’t ignore it, do something about it! Even the smallest act, like going for a coffee with a previous colleague, can open doors you didn’t even know existed. Careers don’t have to be linear; you can carve your own path and often that leads you to where you were always meant to be! Go where you are valued, not just tolerated.
