Issue link: http://publications.winnipegfreepress.com/i/1054325
17 Drive your career forward. The non-profit Crown corporation has provided basic public automobile insurance to Manitoba motorists since 1971. MPI employs more than 1,800 people, and operates claim and service centres in 12 communities throughout the province. "We believe investing in our people is integral to fostering a culture of excellence," says Satvir Jatana, MPI Vice-President, Human Resources and Corporate Services, and Chief Human Resources Officer. "That's the key to delivering on our mission of providing exceptional coverage and service through the public insurance model. We believe in empowering our employees to provide that exceptional service that you come to expect from MPI, and that is done through creating a day- to-day atmosphere where everyone feels valued." And that starts on day one at MPI. New team members are given the tools to thrive through the organization's onboarding program, job-specific training and continuing education support, as well as leadership development to enhance their career opportunities. For instance, MPI recently rolled out a new in-house mentorship program aimed at women with leadership aspirations within the Corporation. "A number of leaders from all levels of the organization have stepped forward to mentor other women on their career paths," Jatana says. "While this doesn't guarantee them a spot in leadership, it helps build confidence and provides them with resources and support to excel." At MPI, they know that life doesn't stop the minute you sit down at your desk. By providing benefits that meet the needs of its employees and their families, the organization strives to give its team the tools to strengthen their overall physical, mental and emotional well-being. From generous maternity, parental and adoptive leave programs to robust employee and family assistance, including on-site mental health workshops and online resources, to personal wellness funding and fitness classes, MPI encourages work-life balance that works for each individual. That also includes physical locations that make the day a little easier. At its head office in downtown Winnipeg, employees can easily enjoy all the amenities of cityplace shopping centre – including a food court and fitness facility – as well as nearby Bell MTS Place and the Millennium Library. Elsewhere, Jatana says all of MPI's claim and service centres are welcoming and comfortable places to work that include lunchrooms and collaborative spaces to share ideas. While the Corporation helps its staff to succeed, it also encourages them to be active in the communities that they serve. For instance, the organization is a strong supporter of United Way Winnipeg. "The neat thing about the United Way campaign is it's our employees that take the lead. They design the campaign," Jatana says. "Every year we're amazed with its success and we continue to beat the previous years' results, both in participation and our level of contribution to such a worthy cause." Growth and improvement aren't just buzzwords at MPI – they're built into the culture of excellence the Corporation continually strives to achieve for staff and customers alike. "MPI is always looking to evolve in how we serve Manitobans and meet their needs. We do the same thing for our employees," Jatana says. MANITOBA PUBLIC INSURANCE TREATING ITS PEOPLE RIGHT BY JARED STORY At Manitoba Public Insurance (MPI), exceptional coverage and service starts with treating its employees exceptionally well. The employee-led annual United Way campaign is one example of MPI's efforts to empower staff to create a culture of excellence throughout the Corporation. PHOTO BY TRISTAN FAST