(Photo, Cindy Bené)
Where are you originally from and how did you get to Central Oregon?
I’m originally from Cleveland, Ohio. I moved my family to Bend in August 2005. At that time, it was one of the top places in the country to raise a family. We came by train so my children [who]were in middle school at the time could see the country.
Where else have you lived in Oregon?
I lived in the valley from 2013-2016 and then moved to the Oregon coast in the summer of 2016. I came back to Bend in May 2017.
What do you like best about working in this area?
The people. Central Oregonians are friendly, welcoming and driven. It’s also convenient that specifically in Bend you can get most anywhere in a matter of 10-15 minutes.
What do you do for Ibex?
I started at [then]IBEX Global [now Ibex.]in June 2017. I have been there over a year so far. My main function is recruiting customer service and sales agents.
How does recruiting in Central Oregon differ from other states?
I can’t speak to the state as a whole, but I can say that recruiting in Central Oregon is more challenging than say Cleveland, OH. Bend currently has many more positions available than people to fill those positions. You will often see the opposite in larger cities. I prefer this dichotomy because it keeps me on my toes as a recruiter and really helps step up and sharpen my recruiting chops.
What professional organizations do you belong to?
I am a member of the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), Human Resources of Central Oregon (HRACO) and Central Oregon Employer Council (COOEC).
What other interests do you pursue outside of work?
I volunteer occasionally at Cascade Theater, I am the event co-chair for the Alzheimer’s Association in Central Oregon. Our next Walk to End Alzheimer’s is on September 15. During the summer you’ll find me volunteering with Bend Brew Fest and Oktoberfest in the fall. My favorite pastime is spending time with my two-year-old grandson.
Besides the name change, what is new for Ibex moving forward?
Ibex is the in the middle of a summer ramp up and hiring over 150 people between now and October 1. Along with partnering with EDCO and the Bend Chamber of Commerce, Ibex will be hosting a representative from the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Oregon in the fall to recruit Bigs (adults who are the big brothers and big sisters to the children). Ibex is a nominee this year for the 2018 Sage Business Awards in the category of Large Employer.
What is new for you in 2018?
Receiving a nomination for Woman of the Year is something that is not only new but truly unexpected. I feel so blessed to be included among this prestigious group. I recently obtained my SHRM-CP credentials.
I am truly blessed to call Central Oregon home and to associate and work with so many wonderful people.
