Ivone Defreitas is an experienced human resources management expert and a certified Human Resources Professional (CHRP, CHRL). She began her career in the private sector as a generalist, extending her expertise in people management, labour and employee relations, compensation, change management and leadership development. Over the last few years as the Director of Human Resources and Organizational Development for a federal government organization, she has led a team of human resources professionals, provided counsel and expertise to leadership, and worked with union leaders to ensure a safe and happy workplace for everyone.

Ivone is devoted to teaching and educating her students. She started teaching in 2009 at Centennial College and is currently a part-time instructor at Conestoga College.

As an instructor, Ivone utilizes her experience of over two decades in human resources management and business across various industries and sectors when teaching or preparing courses. Ivone was the recipient of the 2021 McMaster Association of Part-time Students (MAPS) Instructor Award.

Michelle has worked in the insurance, technology, and banking industries as a Talent Manager over the years, strategizing different ways to source and build talent pipelines. She ran and recruited a Microsoft Business Partnership company in New York for eight years, hiring and sourcing consultants for the financial and entertainment industries. In her free time, she dedicates herself to volunteering for nonprofit organizations, actively seeking opportunities for continuous personal and professional development, and providing coaching to individuals. Michelle continues to be actively involved in identifying and attracting top talent in several industries to support growing companies, collaborating closely with existing teams to streamline and enhance recruitment processes.