Without a doubt, it’s the people that make the place, even in a place as unique and universally celebrated as Vancouver Island’s rugged west coast.
In fact, celebrating and recognizing its people has been a core value for the Wickaninnish Inn since its opening in 1996.
“A focus on the respect of place and purpose within the community is close to our hearts and a reflection of our longstanding belief that our people and our community are our greatest assets,” says Charles McDiarmid
Deeply woven into this commitment to people and place is also their dedication to sustainability, naturally befitting this destination perched on nature’s edge. Decades ago, sustainability measures included careful surveying of on-site trees and mindful placement of buildings between them, and then included repurposing recycled wood for natural wall accents, window and door trims and furniture. Today, as the Wick continues to grow and evolve, they still seek new ways to live those values.
Beyond the environmental passion at the heart of the Inn, its team embraces an integrated and holistic approach to sustainability, extending to the equally essential pillars of its social and community values. “This expansive definition of collective sustainability is at the very core of everything we do,” says Charles McDiarmid
Values-driven leadership supports this commitment and drives it forward. By leaning into the question of how to best support and guide people to step into their future selves, the Inn’s team prioritizes nurturing talent and potential, crafting careers and opportunities for team members to forge their unique path forward.
With a proud tradition of internal growth from within, the Inn recently celebrated several promotions to the Directors level, which now include:
- Charles McDiarmid, Managing Director and Owner
- Christine Stocker, Director of Operations
- Ike Seaman, Director of Food & Beverage
- Jeannette Garcia, Director of Front Office & Spa
- Tristan Raghunan, Director of Housekeeping & Sustainability
- Naomi Banks, Director of Finance
- Melody McLorie, Director of Human Resources
- Carmen Ingham, Executive Chef
In addition, Margaux Martin-Jarrand is now Sustainability Coordinator and Sustainability Committee Chairperson, Seraina Horber has been promoted into the role of Housekeeping Manager, and Francis Sabenecio to the position of Front Office Manager.
“It’s an honour to have such talented team members. As we continue to grow, we will always explore new ways to live our values on a day-to-day basis for both our people and our planet.”
Talent Spotlight: Sustainability Committee from Wickaninnish Inn on Vimeo.
A culture of learning and growth
Of course, the Inn’s unparalleled location on Chesterman Beach in the heart of Clayoquot Sound, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, also attracts like-minded individuals passionate about furthering their environmental and community sustainability efforts. Volunteers from every department work through the Sustainability Committee to continuously seek new ways of carrying forward the McDiarmid family’s vision.
Every team member plays an integral part in creating and delivering extraordinary experiences. The Inn’s talented and motivated hospitality professionals are passionate about learning and growing in an award-winning environment where skill development, world-class training and advancement are embedded in the culture.
Visit wickinn.com/careers to learn more about career opportunities at the Wickaninnish Inn and follow @wickcareers on Instagram for stories of their people, community and passion for the Pacific Northwest.