INNOCEAN Canada Names Shawna Dressler VP, People and Culture

INNOCEAN Canada is adding to its executive management team with the appointment of Shawna Dressler as the new vice president of people and culture. Based at INNOCEAN’s Toronto office, Shawna will lead the Human Resources department for the award-winning agency.

Before joining INNOCEAN Canada, Shawna served as the head of people for The&Partnership from 2018 to 2023. In this role, she was a senior leader on the company’s executive and management teams, overseeing people and operations functions across the organisation. With over 20 years of progressive experience in People and Culture, Dressler has worked in various creative and purpose-driven agencies, including Zulu Alpha Kilo, Rain, GJP, Pigeon Brands, and Palette Group. Additionally, she has contributed her expertise to not-for-profit and educational organisations in both Canadian and international settings.

Outside the office, Shawna is an EQUIFY-certified member and volunteer advisor with AIR (Allies in Recruiting). She also serves as a mentor, sponsor, and panel speaker for IMDOINGIT!, providing support and opportunities to Black youth in the areas of business and career excellence.

“I couldn’t be more excited to join INNOCEAN Canada. It’s fully integrated and part of a diverse world-class global organisation while also being a locally autonomous Canadian agency with over 140 employees in Toronto and Montreal,” says Shawna. “INNOCEAN’s unparalleled commitment to People and Culture has been recognised by the Great Place to Work Institute Canada for three consecutive years, and they were one of the fastest-rising companies on the 2023 Creative Power List. As our 15th anniversary approaches, I am honoured to build on this impressive foundation, taking our People and Culture further than ever before as we continue to grow and expand into new areas.”

“Shawna is committed to building strong creative cultures and uniquely modern programs that will attract, grow, and retain individuals who thrive in innovative, people-first organisations,” said INNOCEAN Canada president and CEO, June Hong. “We’re incredibly excited to have her join us at the start of the year and lead our people and culture at INNOCEAN moving forward.”