We spoke to Rejean Chiasson, General Manager, to learn more about their experience with international employees and the business.
“The Canmore Inn & Suites and Canmore Rocky Mountain Inn are a part of INNhotels, a family of independent hotels throughout Alberta and BC. Our hotels focus on being leaders in hospitality, sustainable tourism, and community development,” Rejean told us.
When asked about his staff, he told us, “We have just over 70 amazing staff that work various jobs within the hotel such as housekeeping, guest services, maintenance, food & beverage and administration. We have a mixture of both seasonal and full-time staff that allow us to continue to operate successfully.” Several of their team members have worked for them for over 15 years. This just goes to show how dedicated they are to the happiness of their team members.
The Canmore Inn & Suites and Canmore Rocky Mountain Inn are proud employers of several international staff members. They currently have about 20 International staff members who make up about 30% of their overall team. “At this time, our staff are mainly from Chile, Philippines and Eastern Europe whereas pre-covid we had many employees from Australia and the UK. Our European foreign workers now include 5 new arrivals from Ukraine as we want to do our part in helping with the current crisis,” Rejean explained. They provide a staff housing program and other food and beverage-related benefits to help support their staff.
Rejean spoke about the countless benefits of hiring staff members worldwide. “International staff bring many great benefits to our hotel. They bring language and international knowledge, which in the travel industry is a great benefit,” he said. “ International staff are always hard working and excited to be in the beautiful Rocky Mountains of Canada, allowing them to have an authentic experience during their time with us.”
He told us that most of his international staff members arrive with working holiday visas become deciding they would like to stay and continue working for them long-term. “We have supported several staff with LMIA’s and many have now received their PR status. This year was exciting as 3 of our long-term staff gained their Canadian citizenship!” he said.
Rejean spoke about the benefits of coming to live and work in the Bow Valley for folks from other countries. “If you are looking for a fantastic work-life balance where you can meet people from all over the world while having an authentic Canadian experience, then you should consider coming to the Bow Valley. You will make life-long memories and be able to enjoy all the amazing activities that the Canadian Rockies have to offer.”
Next, Rejean offered a message to his fellow employers who might be considering employing foreign workers. “Due to the typically transient workforce in the Bow Valley, it is crucial to ensure that you are well staffed with international workers. By investing and supporting these team members you will not only enrich your workplace culture but you will ensure that your business can operate successfully year-round.”
He noted that the process can be challenging but that it is absolutely worthwhile. Things such as LMIA applications take time, but they may be your ticket to a forever employee. When in doubt, chat with an immigration professional to set your business and your employees up for success.
This story was made possible by our Community Partners Program. Thank you Foothills Immigration Inc. for helping to expand local news coverage in the Bow Valley. Learn more.
