Lydia Burnside-Hughes

Lead, Talent & Performance Programs @ Wealthsimple

Canada

About

Dedicated and results-driven HR professional with extensive experience in employee experience, workplace operations, and HR programs. Passionate about creating inclusive and productive work environments.

Experience

  • Wealthsimple (Toronto, Ontario, Canada)
    • Lead, Talent & Performance Programs
      Oct 2025 - Present · 9 mos

      I build and run learning programs that support both individual contributors and people leaders in growing their skills and doing meaningful work. This includes live workshops, self-paced learning, coaching sessions, and peer mentorship circles — all designed to be practical, engaging, and easy to apply. I also partner with great external coaches and vendors to bring valuable resources to our teams. In addition to development programs, I support key performance/talent initiatives like our internship program, internal mobility, and the annual performance management cycle. My focus is on creating simple, scalable ways to help people grow and stay connected to their work.

    • Manager, HR Programs
      Jul 2024 - Oct 2025 · 1 yr 4 mos

      Built and launched HR programs to strengthen employee engagement and organizational effectiveness.

    • Senior Specialist, HR Programs
      Mar 2024 - Jun 2024 · 4 mos

      Developed and implemented HR programs to enhance employee engagement.

  • Opencare.com (2 yrs 8 mos)
    • Human Resources Generalist
      Feb 2021 - Jun 2021 · 5 mos

      Provided HR support across recruitment, onboarding, and employee relations to enable team growth.

    • Employee Experience Manager
      May 2019 - Feb 2021 · 1 yr 10 mos

      Developed and executed employee experience strategies that built culture, inclusion, and engagement.

    • Workplace Operations Manager
      Nov 2018 - May 2019 · 7 mos

      Optimized workplace operations and launched engagement initiatives that enhanced the employee experience.

  • Office Operations + Employee Experience Coordinator at Top Hat
    Feb 2018 - Nov 2018 · 10 mos

    Coordinated office operations and employee engagement programs to create a productive and connected workplace.

  • Assistant Store Manager + Training Lead at The Body Shop
    Mar 2017 - Feb 2018 · 1 yr

  • Tuition Centre Director (Business + HR Operations) at Explore Learning
    Jun 2013 - Mar 2016 · 2 yrs 10 mos