Meet your recruiter: Heather Macfarlane, external recruiter

Originally hailing from Surrey on the west coast, Heather has embarked on a journey that has guided her to the welcoming embrace of Kelowna. Annual summer retreats to the Okanagan in her childhood forged enduring memories of the region’s stunning beaches, lakes and abundant recreational offerings. In 2022, Heather decided to make Kelowna her permanent home, a decision she has come to cherish.

Kelowna has a unique charm that Heather is enamored by. While smaller than bustling metropolises like Vancouver, the city doesn't compromise on amenities, offering a diverse array without the chaos. The city's modest size offers a balanced living experience, allowing residents to relish tranquility while enjoying easy access to a plethora of outdoor activities.

Beyond work: Unwinding in nature

Outside of her role, Heather finds solace in the outdoors. Walking her dogs along the serene lakefront at City Park or exploring the greenway trails at Mission Creek Park allows her to unwind and reconnect with nature. Her appreciation for the Okanagan region extends to its renowned vineyards, where she enjoys leisurely tours from Osoyoos to Lake Country. She recently took up golf and enjoys Kelowna’s various courses, which compliments her dynamic and active lifestyle.

The Okanagan stands out as a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and caters to a wide variety of interests. Whether it's the allure of hundreds of hiking and biking trails, the thrill of skiing, the serenity of swimming at sandy beaches, or the joy of boating, Kelowna embraces all passions, making it an idyllic home for someone with a profound love for the outdoors.

Merging passion with her profession at IH

Heather's professional journey with Interior Health (IH) began in September 2022 when she joined as a recruitment assistant. By December of the same year, she had transitioned into the role of a recruiter. With prior recruitment experience, Heather was thrilled to merge her knowledge and skills at IH and align her passion for health and well-being with her career.

Heather's commitment to health and well-being stems from her formative years. In high school, she volunteered with senior citizens in her community, participating in various events and activities at the local seniors’ clinic. Although she knew providing medical care wasn't her calling, Heather wanted to contribute to seniors' quality of life and becoming an IH recruiter has helped her achieve her career goal.

Bridging the gap in rural communities

As a recruiter, Heather oversees the Thomson Cariboo Shuswap region, and recruits for hard-to-fill positions in rural communities. One standout experience was recruiting a registered nurse from Africa for the community of Merritt. Guiding the candidate through the relocation process, from submitting their application in Africa to starting a new role in Merritt, was a fulfilling experience for Heather.

Advice for aspiring health-care professionals

Heather offers valuable advice to those aspiring to join the health-care field. Stressing the importance of an updated and tailored resume, she encourages candidates to clearly state all relevant certifications, licences and experiences, including volunteer or practicum engagements. Heather believes that a comprehensive application not only showcases dedication to the role but also enhances the chances of making a meaningful contribution to the health-care industry.

Have you thought about a career in the Thompson Cariboo Shuswap region of B.C.?

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