You’ve probably seen Rob at community events, shaken his hand, or heard him speak as a guest, but WHO really is Rob?
With over 30 years of leadership across finance, technology, and human resources, Rob Starkell has built a career on helping organizations align people, processes, and performance. Today, as Owner of West-Can Human Resource Solutions, Rob applies his international corporate expertise to the unique challenges faced by small and medium-sized businesses across Westman.
Rob’s career began in finance and business systems, working with leading global companies such as Kraft Foods, Virgin Retail, and Pfizer. In these roles, he managed multimillion-dollar budgets, implemented enterprise-wide systems, and led cross-cultural teams across Europe, Asia, and North America. His work took him from Zurich to Greater China to Ireland, where he oversaw IT strategy at Pfizer’s major manufacturing facility. Throughout these years, Rob developed a deep expertise in business process design, strategic planning facilitation, and organizational effectiveness.
Returning home to Brandon, Rob transitioned his global experience into community and business leadership. He served as Executive Director of Westman Lions Manor, overseeing operations, staff development, budgeting, and strategic planning for one of the region’s largest seniors’ facilities. He also launched ventures including Cloud West Computing & Consulting and Westman POS, supporting local businesses with systems implementation, process redesign, and innovation coaching.
In 2017, Rob became partner in West-Can HR, where they focuses on helping businesses in Western Canada strengthen their people practices. Their services include recruitment, temporary labour solutions, HR compliance reviews, compensation and wage structuring, and strategic HR consulting. He works closely with owners and managers to not only meet compliance requirements, but also to build workplace cultures that attract and retain talent.
In 2025, Rob became the sole owner of West-Can HR.
Beyond his consulting practice, Rob has been deeply engaged in board governance and community development. He has served three years on the Brandon Chamber of Commerce board, four years with the Construction Association of Rural Manitoba, three years on the Brandon Career Symposium board, and 12 years as a Futurepreneur mentor supporting young entrepreneurs. He is also a past member of the Kinsmen Club of Brandon, reflecting his long-standing commitment to community service and leadership.
What sets Rob apart is the combination of his global corporate insight with a local, practical approach. He understands the pressures of managing lean teams in rural Manitoba just as well as he understands enterprise systems in multinational corporations. His approachable, situational leadership style makes him a trusted advisor to both executives and frontline staff.
From boardrooms in Europe to businesses and board tables in Brandon, Rob Starkell’s career reflects a consistent vision: turning workforce challenges into opportunities for growth while strengthening the community he calls home.
So when you see Rob around the community, don’t forget to wave hello or share a smile. He’s always happy to connect, listen, and share ideas. After all, building relationships is at the heart of everything he does!
MANITOBA MINIMUM WAGE ON THE RISE
By: Heavenlee Prawdzik
Set your payroll reminders!
Minimum wage will be going up to $16.00 on October 1, 2025. This is a 1.1% ($0.20) increase from the prior minimum wage and directly reflects the rate of inflation here in Manitoba.
Did you know?
In 1921, Manitoba was one of the first provinces in Canada to establish a $0.25 minimum wage. The minimum wage was established to prevent exploitation of Manitoba’s vulnerable workforce, women and children. Manitoba’s minimum wage did not include its male workers until almost 15 years after the first minimum wage was initiated.
SEPTEMBER 30th: TRUTH AND RECONCILIATION DAY
Visit the Brandon Urban Aboriginal Peoples’ Council page to see all the events and activities happening for Truth and Reconciliation Week, September 29 to October 4.
Brandon Career Symposium – Save the Date!
– March 2026
Brandon Chamber of Commerce September Luncheon.
Sangeetha and Rob represented West-Can HR at the September Chamber Luncheon on September 18, held at MNP Hall in the Keystone Centre. The event focused on Economic Reconciliation and provided a great opportunity to connect with members of the business community and build new relationships.
Michael Maendel, President of Burns Maendel (left), Chris Hunt, Student Success Advisor at Assiniboine College (middle) and Rob (right)
City of Brandon Mayor Jeff Fawcett (left) and Rob Starkell, owner of West-Can HR (right).
Christie's Office Plus Customer Appreciation Day & Tradeshow 2025
Some snaps at Christie’s Customer Appreciation Day & Tradeshow 2025! Held on September 19, the West-Can HR team had a great time exploring unique office products, making connections, and discovering the latest tools to make work easier and more enjoyable.
Employment Presentation at West-Bran
On September 24, 2025, Sangeetha Kavasseri, HR Advisor at West-Can HR, delivered an insightful presentation at West-Bran, focusing on the dynamics of the Westman employment market.
Her session offered valuable guidance to job seekers on how to enhance their employability in a competitive job landscape. The presentation was not only informative but also highly interactive. West-Can HR is proud to support such initiatives that contribute to workforce development in our community.
