From Banking to Building Teams: Meet Joanne, Morbern’s HR Dynamo!

Q: You’ve been with Morbern for a few months now. How’s it going so far?

A: It’s been great! The people here have been so welcoming, and I’ve really enjoyed getting to know the team. Morbern has such a community feel, and it’s been refreshing to work in a place where everyone is so friendly and supportive.

 

Q: You’ve had quite the career before joining Morbern. Can you tell us a bit about your journey?

A: I actually started in banking 30 years ago—hard to believe! I was a financial advisor, handled investments and lending, you name it. My career took me all over—from the East Coast to Florida—and I got to experience so many different business cultures. But after a while, I transitioned into HR, working for Walmart in their logistics division, where I helped manage 800 employees. It was quite the adventure!

 

Q: You moved back to Cornwall after some time in the U.S. What drew you back?

A: Moving back to Cornwall felt like the right decision when our oldest son was in high school. We wanted to be close to family and give our boys a sense of home. Cornwall has this wonderful small-town charm, but it’s also perfectly located between Ottawa and Montreal, so we get the best of both worlds. Plus, it’s such a beautiful place, right on the water, with hidden gems like Birchwood. It’s more than just where we live—it’s where we belong.

 

Q: Speaking of family, you have two sons—what are they up to now?

A: Yes, I do! My oldest just got married last month, and he’s finishing up his police training. My youngest is thriving in the HVAC trades. Seeing them grow into such amazing, kind-hearted men has been one of the greatest joys of my life. And my husband Sean, since we moved back, has opened up a barber shop right here in Cornwall!

 

Q: What originally drew you to Morbern, and how has your role evolved since starting?

A: Honestly, it was the work-life balance that drew me in. Coming from TD Bank, where the hours were long and weekends were rare, the chance to have more time for myself and my family was such a gift. Now, I can plan dinners, enjoy my weekends, and really focus on what matters most. The team here is incredible, and I’ve found so much joy in recruiting new talent—it’s so fulfilling to help others find their place at Morbern, just like I did..

 

Q: What’s the most surprising thing you’ve learned since joining Morbern?

A: How spotless the plant is! I walk through a portion of it every day to get to the office, and it’s always clean and organized. It’s just one of those little things that makes working here feel special.

 

Q: How would you describe Morbern in three words?

A: Community, friendly, and clean. You can tell it’s a locally owned business, and there’s such a warm, welcoming atmosphere here. It’s a pillar in the community, and I’m proud to be part of it.

 

Q: If Morbern had a mascot, what would it be and why?

A: Oh, that’s easy—it would definitely be a dog! Dogs are loyal, friendly, and always there for you, just like the team at Morbern. In fact, I’d say my own Boston Terrier, Bella, would make the perfect mascot! She’s kind, loyal, and full of personality. I’d be happy to loan her to Morbern anytime—we’d be in good hands with Bella leading the way!

 

Q: What advice would you give to someone just starting at Morbern?

A: The opportunities here are endless! Don’t hesitate to go after roles that spark your interest, no matter how new you are. Morbern truly values its people, and if you bring your best self to work every day, you’ll definitely be noticed. My motto is, “Your attitude is your altitude!” It’s all about how far you can go when you stay positive and motivated.

 

Q: And finally, what keeps you motivated every day?

A: It’s all about building people. There’s nothing more rewarding than watching someone grow, knowing that I had a small part in their success. Helping others reach their potential brings me so much joy, and at the end of the day, that’s the legacy I hope to leave behind—people who’ve thrived because I believed in them and helped them believe in themselves.