CPHR Canada Appoints Rola Helou as CEO to Lead New National Strategy
CPHR Canada has appointed Rola Helou, Adm.A., CRHA, as Chief Executive Officer and announced new Board leadership as the organization begins implementation of its national strategy to strengthen the HR profession and enhance the value of the CPHR designation across Canada.
Following a national search, Helou has been appointed CEO of CPHR Canada. Helou brings extensive executive leadership experience in governance, organizational transformation, stakeholder engagement, strategic planning, and human resources. A bilingual executive and certified HR professional, she has successfully led organizations through growth and change while building strong partnerships.
As CEO, Helou will lead the implementation of CPHR Canada's new strategy, focused on strengthening the national voice of the profession, enhancing the recognition and value of the Chartered Professional in Human Resources (CPHR) designation, and supporting the evolving future of work in Canada.
"Following a thorough national search, the Board unanimously agreed that Rola is the right leader for CPHR Canada at this pivotal moment," said Philippe de Villiers, Past Chair of the CPHR Canada Board of Directors. "Her experience leading organizational transformation, building strong stakeholder relationships, and advancing the HR profession will be invaluable as CPHR Canada implements its new strategy."
A key priority during Helou's first year will be engaging directly with member associations, partners, and international colleagues to deepen relationships, understand emerging priorities, and identify opportunities for greater collaboration and impact across the federation.
"I am honoured to join CPHR Canada at such an important time for both the organization and the profession," said Helou. "Human resources professionals play a critical role in helping organizations create value, navigate change, and build strong workplaces. I look forward to working closely with our member associations and partners to advance the profession and strengthen the value of the CPHR designation across Canada."
Recognizing Anthony Ariganello's Leadership
As CPHR Canada welcomes Helou, the organization also recognizes and thanks Anthony Ariganello for his leadership and service as CEO of CPHR Canada.
For many years, Ariganello successfully served as CEO of both CPHR Canada and CPHR BC & Yukon, helping strengthen the national profile of the HR profession, foster collaboration across the federation, and build strong relationships with stakeholders and partners across Canada and internationally.
His leadership helped advance the visibility and credibility of the profession nationally while strengthening partnerships that have positioned CPHR Canada for continued growth and impact.
As CPHR Canada enters this next chapter, Ariganello will continue in his role as CEO of CPHR BC & Yukon, where he remains a valued leader within the CPHR community.
"On behalf of the Board, I want to thank Anthony for his exceptional leadership and dedication to CPHR Canada," said de Villiers. "Over many years, he helped elevate the profile of the profession, strengthen collaboration across our federation, and build important relationships with stakeholders in Canada and abroad. The organization is well positioned for the future because of his contributions."
New Board Leadership
CPHR Canada is also pleased to announce the appointment of Erin Polcyn Sailer as Chair of the Board of Directors and Naz Kullar as Vice-Chair.
Together with the Board and CEO, they will help guide the organization as it advances its strategic priorities, strengthens collaboration across the federation, and continues to enhance CPHR Canada's role as the national voice of the HR profession.
"CPHR Canada is entering an exciting new phase of growth and opportunity," said Erin Polcyn Sailer, Chair of the Board of Directors. "With a strong Board, an accomplished new CEO, and the support of our member associations across the country, we are well positioned to advance the profession and create greater value for HR professionals and employers nationwide."
About CPHR Canada
CPHR Canada is the national organization representing the Chartered Professionals in Human Resources profession. Working in partnership with provincial and territorial member associations, CPHR Canada advances the HR profession through professional standards, certification, advocacy, and thought leadership. Together, the federation supports HR professionals in shaping the future of work and building stronger workplaces across Canada.
