Susana is one of the most inspiring and uplifting people you could meet. She not only plays an instrumental role at FGF but also embodies our cultural values. Eager to learn more about her journey, we interviewed Susana to discuss her personal and professional growth and how she finds success in both areas.

Susana, how did you start your journey at FGF? 

My journey at FGF began in 2013 when I joined as a Talent & Development Business Partner for the Manufacturing Team. Back then, I was the first full-time Business Partner in Manufacturing. However, in April 2017, I decided to retire. FGF hosted my retirement party and then I was off to embark on a 6-week vacation… only to find myself returning.

Initially the intention was to work just two days per week, assisting where needed, but those days gradually expanded to three. By February 2018, I was offered a full-time position to rejoin FGF and lead the newly formed Health & Safety (H&S) Team. At that time, I was the only member of the H&S Team, and I started building the program and the team.

In 2020, the COVID-19 Pandemic hit, and we worked day and night to support the company.

That was an experience that I will never forget! Working closely with the best leadership imaginable, we shared the load, and navigated through one of the most challenging and uncertain periods of our lives.

In 2022, I got the opportunity to move into a role as a T&D Compliance Auditor, with the objective of performing regular People Practices Audits at all FGF locations.

Shortly after, FGF continued to grow, and completed a large acquisition (hello Wonderbrands). I took the opportunity to do a Tour of Duty as a Director of T&D for Western Canada.  I supported the Plants in Winnipeg, Calgary and Langley, British Columbia.

At the end of 2022, I started working with the US Team on the Integration of the T&D practices and successfully launched them in January of 2024.

Finally (for now) a couple of months ago, I have been asked to lead the T&D Team in San Antonio, Texas, while still doing People Practices audits. 

Tell us a little bit about yourself. 

In 1991, I immigrated to Canada after earning my bachelor’s degree in engineering. Prior to my move, I gained experience in Human Resources and Labour Relations in Peru’s oil industry. In Canada, I continued my HR career, focusing on the automotive and packaging sectors.

On a personal note, I am a wife and a proud mother and stepmother to three remarkable young men. Outside of work, I enjoy spending my time with my family, as well as outdoors, or listening to my husband’s band!

What do you do at FGF? 

I have done a bit of everything, but at FGF I am an ambassador of the culture! Officially, my LinkedIn title is “Talent and Development Compliance Auditor”.

What have been the most significant learning experiences for you at FGF?

Undoubtedly, the most remarkable experience occurred during the pandemic. I learned how to deal with a virus, with very little information; how to deal with government agencies that operate on different timelines; confronted the fear of uncertainty; and managed the anxiety of others and my own.

What achievements are you most proud of during your tenure at FGF, and why?

My most significant achievement was getting a 99% success rate in having FGF Team Members vaccinated. This was particularly noteworthy as our manufacturing facility was the first to receive vaccines from the Government. It truly was a collective effort, showcasing incredible teamwork and collaboration. I am very proud to be part of this team! The Engagement Survey after the pandemic showed that a high percentage of our Team Members felt safe to work at FGF and really appreciated what we did to protect them during that difficult time. Which reaffirms that feeling of achievement!

What do you love about your role?

I love the variety. I love that I get to interact with different teams, which allows me to share my experiences at FGF and the passion I pour into everything I do here. I love working with fantastic Leaders like Lori, who taught me so many things, work related and also life experiences.

In your opinion, what’s the secret sauce that makes FGF a great place to work?

The secret sauce is the people who make up our team. We have an amazing group of people that genuinely enjoy what they do and, in most cases, work with a smile on their faces. Having Tejus and Ojus as the Leaders of the company is wonderful; they are amazing human beings, and we all know it.

Over the past decade, FGF has undergone many changes. How have these changes impacted your work or your team? 

I moved and grew with my tenure at FGF, from roles in different departments to roles in different countries. One thing that remains constant is I always embrace changes as an opportunity for growth.  Over the past decade, I have seen a lot of changes here, and I believe that I contributed, in one way or another, to some of the improvements we implemented, specifically in the Talent and Development domain.

What advice do you have for anyone starting a job at FGF?

Keep an open mind; this isn’t your average company. It’s a hub of opportunities. Opportunities are everywhere, but remember, you’ve got to put in the work, dedicate time, and effort to chase your dreams.

“I’m just having fun! What I like is I can contribute with my energy and transfer that. I like what I do … I really like what I do, and I could say that about any of my years here. What makes all the difference is who you work for and with.”