Meet The MaxPeople Team

Phone: 905-709-1236 x 103      Email: [email protected]

Julie Ruben Rodney M.Ed., CHRL is the Founder and CEO of MaxPeople, a consulting firm specializing in HR Services, Training and Employment Law. A proud Maritimer to the core, Julie truly values people and relationships which led to her start in organizational behaviour early in her career. She has always been a trailblazer and her company inception, and its structure is no exception. She founded MaxPeople 15 years ago after dealing with the loss of a very close friend and realizing that she wanted to build a business that prioritized family and making time for the important things in life. She also teamed up with her husband to become one of the first boutique HR firms to provide in-house employment law services.  

Julie is passionate about continuing to better understand people and has mastered the use of various psychometric tools such as DiSC, MBTI and McQuaig to ensure she always delivers high-impact programs that are tailored to meet the business objectives of each client. She also cares deeply about helping to develop new leaders, increasing employee engagement and improving workplace culture. 

Julie is a graduate of the University of Western Ontario and also has a Masters in Adult Education specializing in Workplace Learning and Change from the University of Toronto. She is an active member of The Executive Committee (TEC) and has been involved in various entrepreneur organizations for well over a decade. Julie has been quoted and contributed articles in publications such as The Globe and Mail, The HR Professional and Dialogue Magazine. She is also a dynamic and accomplished presenter who is invited to numerous speaking engagements each year. 

Julie’s passion for HR is apparent from the first time you meet her. She lives and breathes her company purpose of helping people be focused, happier and more productive and is grateful for the opportunity to assist other organizations to achieve the same. 

Phone: (905) 709-1236  x 102     Email: [email protected]

Jordan Rodney is the President of MaxPeople and Founder of Rodney Employment Law. A lawyer who brings a unique HR perspective to every issue and case he takes on, Jordan’s true passion has, and always will be helping people. A risk-taker at heart, he left the corporate world nearly 11 years ago to team up with his wife to provide in-house employment law services as part of the MaxPeople service offering.

Jordan regularly advises clients on a broad range of complex human resources and employment law issues. He works tirelessly to ensure organizations are equipped to handle workplace challenges using innovative and cost-effective methods. He also takes a customized approach in order to achieve the most practical and effective solutions.

Prior to founding Rodney Employment Law, Jordan spent nearly 15 years in the Human Resources field. He was also previously an instructor at the Schulich School of Business. Jordan obtained his LL.B. from the University of Western Ontario and is a member of the Ontario Bar. He further specialized in HR at Queen’s University obtaining a Master’s of Industrial Relations.

As someone who was fortunate to have had great mentors in his career, Jordan is focused on providing thought leadership and development for those in his firm, his clients and the legal field at large. Jordan has been quoted and contributed articles in publications such as The Globe and Mail, The HR Professional, Dialogue Magazine and Lawyers Weekly. He is also a sought-after speaker who presents to members of various businesses and associations annually.

A lawyer with a strong reputation and extensive experience, Jordan is proud to maintain many long-standing relationships with clients. His combined passion for HR and law give him a unique perspective and he is grateful for the opportunity to continue sharing that with everyone that works with the Rodney Employment Law and MaxPeople teams.

Phone: (905) 695-5995     Email: [email protected]

Miriam Anbar is a legal advisor for MaxPeople and an associate at Rodney Employment Law.  In her practice, Miriam handles a broad spectrum of employment and labour matters, including but not limited to wrongful dismissals, employment standards, employment contracts, human resources law, workplace safety and insurance, human rights, and occupational health and safety.  Miriam assists both employers and employees, and she strives to provide practical strategies to solve complex workplace issues.

Prior to joining the firm, Miriam worked with a boutique employment law firm in Toronto, where she gained deep experience in both civil litigation and labour and employment law.

Miriam volunteered as a Caseworker and Litigator at Community Legal Aid, a poverty-law training clinic based at the University of Windsor’s Faculty of Law, where she represented clients on a wide range of civil and criminal matters.  Miriam negotiated with Assistant Crown Attorneys and Provincial Prosecutors, taking matters through the court system to their conclusion.

Prior to her legal career, Miriam worked as an HR Manager in a busy dental practice, which allowed her to gain valuable experience in human resources and employee relations.  Miriam acquired significant insight into the needs of both employers and employees, which allows her to better understand what her clients are looking for.

Miriam has a passion for public speaking.  She has participated in and won several advocacy competitions and received a number of academic awards.

Miriam completed her law degree at the University of Windsor and obtained an undergraduate degree from York University.  She is a member of the Canadian Bar Association, Ontario Bar Association (Labour & Employment section) and the Law Society of Upper Canada.

In her spare time, Miriam enjoys taking hot yoga classes, learning new languages, and spending time with her family.

Phone: (905) 709-1236 ext. 126    Email: [email protected] 

Arjun Dhir is a legal advisor for MaxPeople and an associate at Rodney Employment Law.  In his practice, Arjun handles a broad spectrum of employment and labour matters, including but not limited to wrongful dismissals, employment standards, employment agreements, human resources law, workplace safety and insurance, human rights, and occupational health and safety. Arjun assists both employers and employees, and utilizes a tailored approach for each client, to provide practical solutions to complex workplace issues.

Prior to joining the firm, Arjun worked alongside a sole practitioner in Toronto, where he gained extensive experience handling a wide array of legal matters. Furthermore, Arjun also volunteered as a Caseworker at the University of Ottawa Community Legal Clinic, a poverty-law training clinic based at the University of Ottawa’s Faculty of Law, where he represented underprivileged clients on a wide range of legal matters.

Prior to his legal career, Arjun worked as a Financial Service Representative at one of Canada’s most prominent banks. During this time, Arjun completed the Investment Funds in Canada course which provided him with accreditation to solicit and sell a wide array of financial instruments. In this position, Arjun was responsible for providing client-specific advice and overseeing the entirety of both the lending and investing processes.

Arjun obtained his Juris Doctor from the University of Ottawa’s Faculty of Law and holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree with Honours in Political Science from York University.

Phone: (905) 709-1236 ext. 114    Email: [email protected]

Shaesta Latif is the Legal Assistant and Paralegal at Rodney Employment Law.

Prior to joining Rodney Employment Law, Shaesta has worked in the capacity of both Legal Assistant and Paralegal, for several small and large firms in Toronto. Shaesta has experience in various areas of law, including: Employment Law, Corporate Commercial, Corporate Finance, and Personal Injury.

Shaesta graduated from University of Toronto with a B.A. in Political Science. She is a Licensed Paralegal and is in good standing with the Law Society of Ontario. Shaesta furthered her education with a Alternative Dispute Resolution Certificate from Centennial College.

Rodney Employment Law handles a broad spectrum of employment and labour matters, including but not limited to wrongful dismissals, employment standards, employment contracts, human resources law, workplace safety and insurance, human rights, and occupational health and safety. Rodney Employment Law assists both employers and employees, and our firm strives to provide practical strategies to solve complex workplace issues.

Shaesta is passionate about assisting others and advocating for both organizations and people.  Shaesta adopts a values-based approach in dealing with clients and co-workers and is particularly focused on providing the highest quality work while providing a memorable client experience. In her personal time, Shaesta enjoys reading, attending yoga classes, and travelling as often as possible. She also enjoys volunteering at various fundraising events including, Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon and United Way CN Tower climb.

Phone: (905) 709-1236 ext. 116     Email: [email protected]

Denise Mahoney is the Director, HR Services with MaxPeople, an HR consulting firm specializing in Human Resources services, training solutions and Employment Law.

Prior to joining the MaxPeople team, Denise has worked with a diverse range of industries over the last 15 years including manufacturing/distribution, professional services, retail and most recently a global architectural and engineering firm.  These experiences enabled her  to hone her skills in cultivating employee engagement initiatives, developing innovative policies and procedures and implementing Canadian HR infrastructure for the businesses.

Denise has extensive experience in employee relations and believes in the importance of fostering a strong employee culture which contributes to a productive organization. Denise has been viewed as a trusted business advisor and has dealt with highly sensitive and confidential information always seeking to achieve win-win solutions with her stakeholders. Denise also has extensive experience in full cycle recruitment, training and development, management/leadership development and health and safety.

Denise obtained an undergraduate degree in Criminology and Sociology from U of T, and furthered her education with a post-graduate certificate in Human Resources Management from Humber College. Denise is currently a Certified Human Resources Leader (CHRL) and is a member of the Human Resources Professional Association.

Denise is passionate about creating great work environments and helping her clients be successful by hiring and training the right people to produce the best results. Her honesty and integrity drive her as an HR professional, and her positive and ‘can-do’ attitude allow her to quickly build relationships and add value to her clients.

Phone: (905) 709-1236  ext 108     Email: [email protected]

Ilana Stern is the Sr. HR Manager, Advisory Services & Training at MaxPeople – a consulting firm specializing in HR Services, Training and Employment Law. A true extrovert, Ilana has always loved being around and helping people which is why she was drawn to a career in the Human Resources field.

As someone who cares deeply about having an impact on people’s work lives, she is passionate about employee relations, training, development and leading complex workplace investigations. She is very practical and  known to her clients and colleagues for being a problem solver.

Prior to joining MaxPeople more than 7 years ago, Ilana gained broad HR experience over several years working in manufacturing, not-for-profit and retail industries. She has led training programs for employees of all levels as well as delivered keynote addresses on a variety of topics. An engaging facilitator, she enjoys interacting with participants while also passing on her knowledge and tips. Ilana has written extensive course materials for clients and is highly adept at using assessments such as MBTI to add value for those she works with.

Ilana obtained a B.A. from York University, after which she earned a post-graduate Certificate in Human Resources Management from Seneca College.  Ilana is also a Certified Human Resource Leader (CHRL) candidate with the Human Resources Professional Association.

Ilana wholeheartedly believes in the MaxPeople mission and loves the consulting aspect of her role as it gives her the ability to truly have an impact with her clients. She is energetic and dedicated with a strong focus on cultivating deep relationships while implementing practical business solutions that contribute to organizational growth and success.

Phone: (905) 709-1236 ext. 106     Email: [email protected]

Chen Sasson is an HR Manager with MaxPeople, a consulting firm specializing in HR Services, Training and Employment Law.  Chen has been with the firm since 2013, working closely with a wide range of clients to develop their Human Capital strategy and establish an HR infrastructure within their organizations.

Prior to joining the MaxPeople team, Chen worked at Zylog Systems Canada Ltd. During her time with this organization, she focused on recruitment and selection, on-boarding and training, performance management, establishing policies and procedures, and managing health and safety practices.

Chen graduated from the University of Western Ontario with a Business Management degree with an Honors Specialization in Human Resources Management. She has obtained her HR Leader Certification (CHRL).

Chen’s goal-oriented approach to her work, along with her excellent communication and interpersonal skills, allows for the best possible outcome when providing support to her clients. Her passion for HR drives her eagerness to learn and grow every day.

Phone: 905-709-1236 x 136      Email: [email protected]

Anna Ali is the HR Manager, Field Services at MaxPeople, an HR consulting firm specializing in Human Resources services, training solutions and Employment Law. As an experienced HR consultant, she provides our HRessentials clients with a full range of recommendations and support in all aspects of human resources.

Prior to joining the MaxPeople team, Anna gained a significant amount of broad HR consulting and client management experience while working at a global management consulting firm. Anna was a Senior Consultant at a global consulting firm where she developed a deep expertise in strategic change management, large transformation programs, and organizational challenges that can be solved through human-centered solutions. Anna is a client-focused professional, with proven team leadership abilities, she has demonstrated expertise in strategic execution, change management, and project management to deliver exceptional client value. As a collaborative, results oriented HR professional, Anna is dedicated to delivering high-impact results. Anna’s role is to collaborate and align people strategy with business strategy to deliver results. With the insight and aptitude to deliver innovative ideas, her strength lies in her industrious, proactive problem solving and a willing to challenge the status quo to find creative and practical solutions.

Anna obtained her Bachelor of Arts, Honours in Employment Relations & Equity Studies. Anna is a Certified Human Resources Professional (CHRP) and in the process of achieving her Certified Human Resource Leader (CHRL) accreditation. She has achieved a Masters in Human Resources Management (MHRM) from York University.

Phone: 905-709-1236 x 138      Email: [email protected]

Sandy Cooper is an HR Manager with MaxPeople, an HR consulting firm specializing in Human Resources services, training solutions and Employment Law.

Prior to joining the MaxPeople team, Sandy worked with a diverse range of industries over the last 20 years, including financial services, automotive, engineering services, telecommunications and most recently a global marketing and manufacturing company.  Sandy’s diverse and broad experiences enabled her to develop deep breadth and expertise in a broad range of human resources functions across the full employment life cycle.

As a collaborative business partner, Sandy has worked with start up companies to global businesses. Sandy champions the translation of organizational strategic visions by understanding business needs and providing thoughtful realistic solutions. Sandy is a results-oriented, strategic, Human Resources leader with a track record of developing and leading human resources strategies to support high growth and large cultural transformation changes.  Sandy believes in focusing on talent strategies that will enhance the employee experience and retain top talent.  A creative and strategic problem solver, Sandy supports opportunities for progressive change that contributes to the overall success of the organization.

Sandy obtained an undergraduate degree in Psychology at York University, and furthered her education with a post-graduate certificate in Human Resources Management from Seneca College.  Sandy holds certifications in Labour Relations and Change Management and is a member of the HRPA.

Phone: (905) 709-1236 ext. 131    Email: [email protected]

Natasha is an HR Consultant with MaxPeople, an HR consulting firm specializing in Human Resources services, training solutions and Employment Law.

Prior to joining the MaxPeople team, Natasha worked across a variety of different industries including Financial Services, Supply Chain, Consulting, and Professional Services. Her diverse experience within a wide range of industries grants her a breadth of knowledge, skills, and perspectives, allowing her to direct her passion in developing value-added insights and solutions that meets client’s needs.

Natasha graduated from McMaster University with an Honours Bachelor of Commerce Degree with Specialization in Human Resources Management. Natasha has a Post Graduate in Human Resources Management from George Brown College and has obtained her HR Professional Certification (CHRP).

Natasha’s determination to meet the needs of her clients coupled with strong communication and interpersonal skills enables for value-added solutions. Natasha has strong collaborative skills and enjoys sharing knowledge and insights with her colleagues and clients.

Phone: (905) 709-1236 ext. 107     Email: [email protected]

Nadia Chamberlain is an HR Consultant at MaxPeople, an HR consulting firm specializing in Human Resources services, training solutions and Employment Law.

Prior to joining MaxPeople, Nadia worked in Client Services where she assisted with onboarding and training new hires. From this role she recognized the value in effectively attracting, engaging and nurturing the right talent at the right time.

Nadia leverages her interpersonal skills with her organizational and problem-solving skills to achieve the best results for the clients she supports. Nadia does not hesitate to take initiative and take on new tasks when supporting the consulting team.

Nadia discovered her passion for working in Human Resources while shadowing the HR Manager in a manufacturing facility. Her curiosity to become an expert in areas such as human potential and organizational behaviour led her to attend Trent University where she obtained an Honours B.A. in Psychology. Following this she earned a post-graduate Certificate in Human Resources Management from Sheridan College. Nadia is also a Certified Human Resources Professional (CHRP) and member with the Human Resources Professional Association.

Phone: (905) 709-1236  ext 105     Email: [email protected]

Jessica is an HR Consultant with MaxPeople, an HR consulting firm specializing in Human Resources services, training solutions and Employment Law.

Prior to joining MaxPeople, Jessica worked across a variety of industries including global housewares, Healthcare, Tech and CPG. Her extensive experience in HR include Recruitment and Selection, Training and Development, Employee Relations, Benefits Program Management, Programs & Policies Development, Data Analytics and HR Metrics.

Jessica graduated from the University of Guelph where she obtained her Bachelor of Commerce majoring in Human Resources Management. She is currently working towards obtaining her HR Professional Certification (CHRP).

Jessica is a passionate Human Resources Professional who thrives on cultivating meaningful client relationships. Her strong communication and interpersonal skills allow her to provide clients with effective and practical HR solutions.

Phone: (905) 709-1236  ext 115     Email: [email protected]

Nataliya Uzerina is an HR Advisor at MaxPeople, an HR consulting firm specializing in Human Resources services, training solutions and Employment Law.

Prior to joining MaxPeople, Nataliya worked in the service industry and focused on client services. Nataliya successfully managed and lead a variety of teams in the Retail and Service industry which led to her passion for training. She is passionate about training as it is an integral part of an individual’s success at any organization.

Nataliya’s passion for training developed through her experience working with a variety of individuals at various levels. Nataliya’s philosophy on learning is based on a belief that a customized approach is necessary to motivate and engage different individuals.

Nataliya has a Bachelors of Arts degree in Psychology from Ryerson University coupled with a Postgraduate Certificate in Human Resources Management from George Brown College. Nataliya’s education combined with her hands on approach gives her an edge when supporting the Training and Engagement team at MaxPeople. Nataliya brings her strong work ethic and interpersonal skills to ensure a positive client experience.

Phone: (905) 709-1236  ext 127   Email: [email protected]

Johanna Van Bilsen is the HR Project Coordinator at MaxPeople, an HR consulting firm specializing in Human Resources services, training solutions and Employment Law.

Prior to joining MaxPeople, Johanna worked as a Volunteer and Community Engagement Coordinator. Johanna successfully trained, led and motivated large teams of university students to actively engage in the community through volunteer and fundraising events. Johanna’s passion for training developed through her experience working with a variety of individuals at various levels. Johanna’s philosophy on learning is grounded by psychological theories of adult learning, and motivation which help her create content that is meaningful and memorable.

Johanna has a Bachelors of Arts degree in Psychology with a minor in Labour Relations from Brock University coupled with a Postgraduate Certificate in Human Resources Management from George Brown College. Johanna’s education combined with her dedication enables her to support the Training and Recruitment team at MaxPeople. Johanna brings her strong work ethic and interpersonal skills to ensure a positive client experience.

Phone: (905) 709-1236 ext. 113    Email: [email protected]

Daniel Kobrossi is a Business Development Director with MaxPeople, an HR consulting firm specializing in Human Resources services, training solutions and Employment Law.

Prior to joining MaxPeople, Daniel gained extensive experience as a  Business Development Manager with various Recruitment firms where he helped clients secure top talent in areas such as accounting/finance, Human Resources, and IT. Daniel is a graduate of York University where he obtained his B.A. in Economics.

Daniel’s customer centric approach to listening and understanding clients’ needs before discussing and recommending solutions has allowed him to develop and sustain long standing business relationships with his clients, who trust and value his expertise. With a true passion for helping organizations grow talent, Daniel is looking forward to helping MaxPeople build upon existing relationships and developing new partnerships.

Phone: (905) 709-1236 ext. 139    Email: [email protected]

Leila Nadjafova is a Director, Business Development and Partner Relations with MaxPeople, an HR consulting firm specializing in Human Resources services, Training solutions and Employment Law.

Prior to joining MaxPeople, Leila gained extensive experience as a Director of Business Development within various industries such as Mental Health, Employee and Family Assistance Program, Business Intelligence and Data Analytics software, Marketing and Recruitment. Leila is a graduate of York University where she obtained her Honours B.A. in Communications studies.

Leila is a highly motivated, ambitious and customer focused professional who is dedicated to helping people in business be more focused, happier, and more productive at work and in life. Throughout her career, she has demonstrated an exceptional ability for meeting organizational objectives, goals and demands. She is committed to organizational growth and success, as well a building strong, long-lasting relationships with her clients.

The golden rule that Leila follows – “Treat others how you want to be treated”.

Phone: (905) 709-1236  ext 101     Email: [email protected]

Teresa Hoang is the Marketing Specialist and Office Manager with MaxPeople, an HR consulting firm specializing in Human Resources services, training solutions and Employment Law.

Teresa is a graduate of Ryerson University where she earned her Bachelor of Commerce, Marketing Management Degree.  She began her career with a giftware company where she managed various administrative functions, client care relations and marketing initiatives.   Prior to joining MaxPeople, Teresa also worked for a non-profit organization where her contributions centered on leading the development and delivery of the certification program to building and maintaining key client accounts.  Teresa was instrumental in the improvement of the company’s online presence that resulted in increased productivity and customer care.

Teresa is distinguished by her passion for business, her focus on collaborative team-building and her dedication to meeting the strategic goals of the organization.  She is also known for her strong work ethic and commitment to developing programs to improve office systems, workflows and processes. Throughout her career she approached every job as opportunities for career growth and discovery, she hopes to bring the same entrepreneurial mindset and vision to MaxPeople.