Humans of Human Resources: Jacky Ivans

In this issue, we profile Jacky Ivans, the new Relocation & Benefits Associate in Human Resources at UBC Okanagan.

Learn about her passion for supporting others, whether it’s her HR colleagues, new and existing staff and faculty, or her volleyball-playing twin teenagers. For Jacky, “life is all about relationships.”

How did you find your way to UBC?

After hearing rave reviews from friends who worked at UBC Okanagan, I joined the Human Resources department in February 2014. I was the Administrative Assistant for the Director of HR and the HR unit, until I became the successful candidate for the newly created Relocation and Benefits Associate position. I’m so thankful to work at this beautiful campus.

What do you do in your new HR role?

As the Relocation and Benefits Associate, I provide relocation information to new faculty and executive staff moving to the Okanagan. I am also here to answer benefit enquiries from new and existing staff and faculty. I also have the opportunity to meet new Okanagan campus staff and faculty at the welcome meetings we host for all new hires.

In addition to growing with my Okanagan team, I will be working closely with Vancouver’s Benefits team to ensure the consistent interpretation and application of benefit policies.

What is your favourite part of the job?

Meeting new staff and faculty is my favourite part of my job. I’m proud to provide them the information they need so that as they transition into their new roles, they are thankful they chose to work at UBC.

What is something you feel you bring to the workplace culture?

Since elementary school, I’ve always played on sports teams, and as an adult I’ve volunteered on committees at my children’s schools or in the community. Teamwork and working with others toward common goals are things I feel I bring to the workplace culture, along with my willingness to serve and help others.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

I love to bike, travel and play volleyball. These days I’m watching my twin teenagers play volleyball more than I actually do, but they’re far better than I ever was, so it’s exciting to watch. My husband and I met while we were playing volleyball, so it’s no wonder that it’s a big part of our family’s life. We drive and fly our kids across the planet to do what they grew up watching us do. The greatest benefit is that we’re all making new and life-long friends along the way. Our motto is “life is all about relationships.”

What is one new thing you want to try, and why?

I look forward to my new role in HR, where I hope to develop relationships on both campuses while assisting staff and faculty with their relocation and benefit needs.

Is there something you would like to encourage others to try?

It’s Bike to Work & School Week May 27 to June 2!