NEWS RELEASE
For Immediate Release
2023NRSD4603
July 7, 2023
Sunshine Coast School District Welcomes New Director of Human Resources, Jim Vair
SUNSHINE COAST, BRITISH COLUMBIA – School District 46 (SD46) is thrilled to announce the appointment of Jim Vair in the newly established district role of Director of Human Resources. His addition to the leadership team marks a significant step forward for the district, reinforcing the commitment to supporting staff members and fostering an excellent working environment.
Jim completed his law degree at the University of Western Ontario and throughout his articles, and in his practice, he focussed solely on human rights and human resources law. He enjoyed his legal practice, however, wanted to be more involved in the direct work of an organization where he could leverage his skills for a greater societal benefit.
Jim’s journey began as a Human Resources Administrator for a Board of Education in Ontario, later joining the Waterloo Region District School Board as the Executive Superintendent of HR and Organizational Development. Seeking to broaden his perspective in the public sector, Jim joined Queen’s University as Associate VP of Faculty Relations and later served as the Director of Employee and Labour Relations at the City of Toronto. Jim’s exceptional skills caught the attention of the Ontario Ministry of Education, which sought his expertise in transitioning labour relations and funding models across Ontario. He then assumed a leadership role at ORNGE, Ontario’s air ambulance service. However, realizing his true passion lay in supporting public education, Jim joined the London District Catholic School Board as Superintendent of HR and General Counsel.
After six years in London, Jim fulfilled his dream of living in British Columbia and relocated to Victoria, where he held the position of Executive Director of Labour Relations and Total Compensation for the BC Public Service Agency. He subsequently assumed the role of Director of HR and General Counsel for Greater Victoria SD61. Following his successful time in Victoria, his journey now brings him to the Sunshine Coast School District, where he eagerly embraces the district’s values and culture, along with the many advantages associated with living and working in a close-knit small community.
Jim is looking forward to connecting with staff and the broader Sunshine Coast community as he settles into his new home. He shared, “Throughout my career, I’ve been dedicated to championing human rights and supporting effective human resources management. I believe in creating positive and inclusive work environments where every individual can thrive. I am excited to join the Sunshine Coast School District and contribute to making it an exceptional place to work for all staff members in the service of students and education.”
Superintendent Kate Kerr commented, “We warmly welcome Jim and look forward to the positive impact he will bring to the district. His extensive experience in human resources and labour relations, coupled with his proven ability to drive change and foster collaborative relationships, make him an excellent addition to the leadership team.”
###
Media Contact:
Stephanie Murawsky
Executive Assistant to the Superintendent | Communications Officer
T: (604) 886-4489