
Business-Driven, People Focused.
We believe that HR is more than just a function. It’s the foundation of a strong business.
Our Core Team
Peoplebiz is home to some of the most highly qualified HR professionals in the industry. Led by Kristi Searle, CPHR Fellow, our team brings decades of experience in HR strategy, business transformation, and Indigenous workplace consulting.
Founded in 2002 and based in Metro Vancouver, we work with employers across Canada and beyond. With team members on two continents, we provide world-class HR expertise with a deep understanding of local business challenges.
FOUNDER & CEO
Kristi Searle
FCPHR, SHRM-SCP, CPC
A distinguished human resources leader, Kristi has over three decades of expertise championing effective HR strategies that empower organizations and their people. Her extensive experience spans both internal and external management consulting, shaping impactful solutions for diverse organizations.
A sought-after voice in the industry, Kristi actively contributes to boards, executive committees, and panels, advancing the field of human resources and executive strategy.
Kristi is of Métis decent from Sweetgrass Nation.
VICE PRESIDENT, CLIENT STRATEGY
Dana Sebal
CPHR, SHRM-CP
As a seasoned business strategist and certified HR professional, Dana brings over 22 years of experience to her role at Peoplebiz. She is a driving force behind our company's success, developing and executing innovative strategies that deliver measurable results for our clients.
Dana's deep understanding of both business dynamics and human capital allows her to create solutions that not only boost the bottom line but also foster positive and productive workplace cultures.
HR BUSINESS STRATEGIST
Debbie Laleune
MA, CPHR
Debbie is passionate about helping organizations build thriving cultures where employees feel valued and engaged, and businesses achieve their strategic goals. With a Master's degree in Leadership and extensive experience across diverse sectors – including government, non-profit, and First Nations organizations – Debbie brings a wealth of knowledge to her clients. She's a certified HR professional and business strategist who excels at aligning people strategies with business objectives to drive impactful results.
Debbie works closely with employers to develop and implement customized solutions that empower their teams and optimize performance.
HR BUSINESS STRATEGIST
David Smee
SHRM-SCP
David is a results-driven, certified human resources strategist with over 10 years of experience helping organizations enhance their performance. He's passionate about aligning HR initiatives with business goals to drive efficiency, optimize processes, and foster positive workplace cultures.
David has a strong track record of success in talent acquisition, employee development, and performance management, with a particular expertise in leveraging automation strategies to streamline HR functions. He brings extensive experience working across various sectors, including government, non-profit, public, and private organizations.
HR BUSINESS STRATEGIST
Sonja Madsen Mills
B.ED., B.COM., CPHR
Sonja is a seasoned and certified human resources professional with a proven ability to drive organizational transformation and deliver impactful talent advisory services. She excels at aligning people and culture strategies with business objectives and implementing human resources best practices that optimize performance and employee well-being.
Sonja has extensive experience leading human resources teams, developing talent management programs, and promoting organizational development initiatives. She also possesses a strong understanding of strategic due diligence and has successfully led people-related aspects of acquisitions and integrations.
HR BUSINESS STRATEGIST
Nancy Ho
BA, MBA
Nancy is a passionate advocate for diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging in the workplace. She brings a wealth of experience from diverse organizations, from startups to Fortune 500 mega-brands, and a true knack for finding creative solutions to complex challenges. Her talent for bringing people together to align HR strategies with business goals creates workplaces where everyone feels valued and empowered.
With a proven track record in people development, Nancy fosters dynamic, high-performing environments that prioritize employee engagement and well-being. She thrives in high-growth and evolving business landscapes, approaching every situation with energy and a positive outlook.
MARKETING & BRAND STRATEGIST
Nash Huntley
Nash is a seasoned marketer with extensive experience in brand strategy and corporate communications. As the former head of marketing for a Canadian supermarket chain, Nash brings a wealth of knowledge in maintaining brand integrity and driving brand growth. His expertise in aligning marketing strategies with business objectives enhances our services, offering clients a holistic approach to organizational development.
Nash’s insights into effective brand communication and strategic marketing ensure that our clients' HR initiatives are not only aligned with their brand values but also resonate powerfully in the market.
Peoplebiz operates under the highest professional standards in HR strategy, ethics, and business leadership, meeting and exceeding the rigorous requirements set by regulatory and certifying bodies. As members of CPHR, SHRM, and NAPS, we stay at the forefront of best practices, ensuring our clients receive expert guidance that is ethical, compliant, and results-driven.
A Vision with Impact, Built by People Who Deliver.
We shape the strategies that shape workplaces. See how our vision drives stronger businesses, better cultures, and lasting results.