Melissa Magder

Melissa Magder is the Advisor of Strategic Initiatives within the Office of Culture and Inclusion at the Regional Municipality of Peel. The Office of Culture and Inclusion leads work in the areas of organizational culture change, accessibility planning and diversity, equity and inclusion. Most recently, the team has elevated its focus on addressing anti-black racism and systemic discrimination both in the workplace and in the community.

Melissa began her career in Human Resources working for organizations such as BMW Group Canada and PricewaterhouseCoopers. It was during that time she noticed the individual and organizational biases which seemed to be advancing some, while disadvantaging others. For the past 12 years Melissa has been working in the field of Diversity & Inclusion, driven by the desire to create an inclusive environment where individual differences are embraced and valued, and where everyone has the ability and support to develop to their full potential.

The Region of Peel is on a journey to becoming a more diverse, equitable and inclusive workplace where every person is respected, valued and has opportunity to grow and develop. As a municipal government, the Region is committed to ensuring its programs and services meet the diverse needs of its diverse community.

Melissa is also a Career Coach with the Rotman School of Management, working with Internationally Educated Professionals to help them navigate the Canadian workplace and achieve their professional goals in Canada.

Melissa has a Master’s Degree and Honours B.A. in Psychology, has traveled to 40 countries and has worked internationally in Melbourne, Australia.