Recruitment & Retention Strategies for Ocean Sector Employers

The ocean sector is evolving rapidly, and attracting and retaining the right talent is more important than ever. Join ECO Canada for a dynamic panel discussion featuring industry leaders who will share insights, strategies, and practical solutions to help employers strengthen their workforce.

This session will explore:

• Innovative approaches to recruiting skilled professionals in a competitive market
• Retention strategies that support career growth, engagement, and long-term success
• Addressing challenges unique to the ocean sector, including remote and coastal operations
• Building inclusive workplaces that attract diverse talent, including Indigenous and underrepresented groups
  

Our expert panel will highlight real-world examples, lessons learned, and actionable takeaways to support your organization in building a resilient, future-ready workforce. Participants will also have the opportunity to ask questions and engage directly with panelists.

Speakers:

Bonnie Elliott, CPHR
HR Manager at CBCL Limited

Bonnie brings over 20 years of experience in human resources, starting out in recruitment and gradually branching into every corner of HR. Today, as HR Manager at CBCL Limited, she champions initiatives that strengthen recruitment and retention, build inclusive workplaces, and support organizational growth. Bonnie is an active member of the IDEAS Committee, driving diversity and belonging, and she’s deeply committed to mentoring others and helping talent flourish. Her passion for developing people and creating opportunities for them to thrive shines through in everything she does.

Denise Palmer

Director People Operations at Archipelago

I am excited to be part of the Archipelago team and combine my passion for Human Resources with my passion for the ocean, with a likeminded team that creates solutions for marine resource sustainability. I have many years’ experience in the hospitality industry including resort and community development, building great teams and cultures to drive both employee and customer satisfaction. I have had the unique experience of living in the US, Europe and Scandinavia and I am excited at the international scope of Archipelagos’ work. I am looking forward to sharing my experience with the team at Archipelago. When I am not admiring the ocean I enjoy any kind of outdoor activity, especially biking and hiking and spending time with my family.

Corrie Anderson

Director Of Human Resources at GeoSpectrum Technologies

Corrie Anderson is a senior leader with 25 years of experience in People & Culture strategy and modernizing HR operations.

As Director, Human Resources, she leads the People & Culture strategy at GeoSpectrum Technologies, a Nova Scotia based company, employing 250 employees. GeoSpectrum designs, manufactures and integrates leading acoustic ocean technology and systems around worldwide.  Corrie focus is presently organizational development, talent attraction, retention, and enhancing their employee experience.

Her HR career spans across the automotive, insurance and ocean technology industries in the private sector. She has led recognized provincial and national HR transformation initiatives and brings niche expertise in mergers and acquisitions