Staff Spotlight – Sangeetha Kavasseri

Who’s one of the hidden gems driving success at West-Can HR? Meet Sangeetha Kavasseri, an HR Advisor who brings perfect mix of expertise, strategy, and heart to Human Resources. 

With a Bachelor of Law (LL.B.), an MBA in Human Resources, and her CPHR designation, she combines legal insight with strategic HR expertise, a rare combination that underpins her measured and confident approach. Whether she’s solving workplace puzzles, navigating tricky policies, or helping teams thrive, Sangeetha approaches her role with unwavering professionalism, while also influencing a positive and strong workplace culture.

After immigrating to Canada in 2012 with her family, Sangeetha quickly established herself in Manitoba’s professional community. Across sectors including manufacturing, healthcare, and food services, she has developed a well-rounded HR lens and a deep understanding of workforce dynamics in diverse contexts.

At West-Can HR, Sangeetha plays a pivotal role in delivering the full spectrum of human resources services: talent acquisition, onboarding, performance management, payroll, and employee relations. Her legal background adds significant value, particularly in helping clients navigate employment standards and regulatory compliance. Whether implementing policy, resolving complex issues, or supporting organizational growth, she approaches every challenge with precision and care.

Beyond her core duties, Sangeetha is actively engaged in Manitoba’s broader HR and newcomer integration ecosystem.

She currently serves on the Manitoba Immigration Employment Council (IEC), collaborating with other professionals to promote inclusive hiring practices and support recognition of international skills within the province’s labour market. It’s no wonder Sangeetha is such a standout at West-Can HR. Her expertise, dedication, and thoughtful approach make the company’s HR services truly shine. Next time you see her at an event, don’t be shy, say hi! You’re sure to leave with a smile and maybe even pick up a tip or two about HR.

Rethinking Performance Management for 2026: Building a Better Review Process

By: Heavenlee Prawdzik

It’s time to leave annual Talent Reviews in 2025. Successful organizations are embracing a more dynamic, people-focused approach that supports both business goals and employee growth, by recognizing that frequent reviews throughout the year are far more effective in driving performance and engagement. 

Here are a few simple ways to modernize your process:

  • Set SMART goals
    Are your objectives Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound? Clear goals mean everyone knows what success looks like.
  • Provide continuous feedback
    Don’t wait for year-end; regular check-ins help employees stay on track and feel supported.
  • Conduct regular performance reviews 

Quarterly or biannual discussions keep momentum and engagement high.

  • Coach don’t just evaluate

Use reviews as an opportunity to coach, not just evaluate.

  • Train your managers

Are your leaders equipped to have meaningful and empathetic performance conversations?

  • Connect goals to the bigger picture

When individual objectives tie into the organization’s vision, everyone feels their impact.

  • Recognize and reward performance

Recognizing achievements genuinely builds motivation and loyalty.

These tips can assist you in transforming your reviews from a dreaded task into a meaningful experience that drives success, for both the business and the PEOPLE behind it.

Brandon Chamber of Commerce First Friday Coffee
– December 5, 2025

Santa Land
– December 6, 2025

Chamber Holiday Mixer
– December 11, 2025

Brandon Career Symposium – Save the Date!
– March 17-18, 2026

Brandon Chamber of Commerce October Luncheon

The West-Can HR team—Rob, Sangeetha, Heavenlee, and Regina—attended the Brandon Chamber of Commerce Luncheon on October 16 at the Victoria Inn. As booth participants and table sponsors, we had the chance to meet incredible local leaders and businesses making a real impact in the community. It was a fantastic opportunity to share ideas and celebrate the people driving Brandon’s growth.
At our table were Susan McMillan, representing Colleen, MLA for Spruce Woods; Jordan Sisson from Strategize Inc.; the team from Visa2Canada Immigration and Settlement Services; and Terry Jaenen on behalf of Wayne Balcaen, MLA for Brandon West.

Rob (left) with Jordan Sisson from Strategize Inc. (right)

Rob (left) with Shawn Wood of Construction Association of Rural Manitoba (right)

CPHR CONFERENCE 2025

Sangeetha and Rob attended the 2025 CPHR Conference in Winnipeg! The event kicked off with an inspiring keynote, “The Elevated Employee Experience: How to Build a Culture Where People Thrive,” by Daniel Lewis. They also had the chance to connect with incredible HR professionals and exchange ideas. Both came back energized and full of fresh insights, ready to make an impact and keep making a difference in everything we do at West-Can HR!

In the photos: Rob, and Sangeetha with Christa from Brandon Clinic (HR Operations Manager) and Lola Oyeladun (HR Director for the City of Brandon).

2025 SHILO SYMPOSIUM

Heavenlee and Regina attended the Shilo Symposium on October 22, 2025, to connect with military families and explore how West-Can HR can support them with employment opportunities. It was also a great chance to meet other organizations and partners who are making a positive impact in the Shilo community.