Herneet Dhillon, Vice President of People and Culture at University Canada West (UCW), is a dynamic HR leader whose strategic vision and commitment to employee development have been instrumental in shaping the institution’s growth. Recently recognized among Women We Admire’s Top 50 Women Leaders of Vancouver of 2024, Herneet has played a pivotal role in fostering a thriving, inclusive, and high-performing workplace culture at UCW.
Graduating from the University of East London in the UK, Herneet first started as an educator, and then ventured into recruitment and private equity. Upon returning to Canada, she joined the education sector again, eventually becoming a key leader at UCW.
Under her leadership, UCW has experienced exponential workforce growth, increasing from just 16 staff members to over 1,200 employees today, aligning with a student body that now exceeds 13,000. A champion of diversity, she has built a workforce representing 58 nationalities, ensuring that faculty and staff reflect the diverse backgrounds of UCW’s international student community.
Under her leadership, UCW has experienced exponential workforce growth, aligning with a diverse student body. A champion of diversity, she has built a workforce representing 58 nationalities, ensuring that faculty and staff reflect the diverse backgrounds of UCW’s international student community
Herneet’s people-first approach has revolutionized HR at UCW. She has introduced key initiatives such as tailored employee benefits, enhanced vacation policies, and strategic workforce planning to support work-life balance and professional growth. She has also led automation in HR processes, streamlined recruitment strategies, and implemented recognition programs that have significantly improved employee engagement. The university’s commitment to career progression is evident through robust internal promotions and professional development opportunities, fostering a workplace where talent is nurtured, and leadership is cultivated.
Beyond her work at UCW, Herneet is deeply committed to mentorship and women’s empowerment. As a mentor for Young Women in Business (YWiB) SFU, she provides guidance to aspiring female leaders, helping them build confidence, develop professional skills, and navigate career challenges. Her passion for mentorship extends to her leadership at UCW, where she actively supports and uplifts women in the workforce, contributing to an institution where over 60% of employees are women.
Herneet’s leadership has not only transformed UCW’s culture but has also positioned the university as a model of inclusive growth and strategic HR excellence. With her continued vision, UCW is set to expand its impact, fostering an environment where employees and students alike can thrive.
