Joining Classic LifeCare in November 2021 marked a pivotal moment in Dana Jardine’s professional journey. After developing her knowledge and professional experience, she was prepared to advance her career to the next level. The move to Classic LifeCare brought about a significant change with better learning opportunities.
Dana’s role encompasses four companies which include Classic LifeCare, CONNECT Communities, CONNECT Partners, and Driving Miss Daisy. Therefore, she is constantly working on different tasks and collaborating with various team members. She values the autonomy granted within her role, enabling her to independently manage her workload.
Dana’s Career Development at Classic LifeCare
Initially, Dana’s focus was on financial controllership and streamlining processes. The transition allowed her to reorganize the company’s books, creating more efficient workflows. Since then, she has introduced new accounting systems for enhanced performance. One of her greatest points of pride is both her and her team’s capability to consistently meet deadlines. This achievement has led to successful company audits.
Becoming the Financial Controller at Classic LifeCare was a new challenge for Dana where she would have to develop her leadership skills. Speaking about the experience, she admits “At the start, leading the Financial Team felt a bit overwhelming. In my previous roles, I often handled a significant workload alone as I wanted things to be done according to my standards. Adapting to delegation was a learning curve in this new position. I had to trust my colleague’s abilities and embrace the responsibility of training and supporting others.”
Embracing A Welcoming and Rewarding Workplace
From her interview, she knew Classic LifeCare was where she wanted to be. “It felt so comfortable and welcoming. Everyone looked happy and it seemed like a close group of people. The office is very social and there is always something fun happening.”
Dana considers the relationships she had built with her colleagues as her favourite aspect of Classic LifeCare. Her favourite memory is the Christmas party where everyone got a chance to celebrate and bond outside of the office.
Dana claims that she now finally understands when people say they love their job. “It’s more than just a job; it’s a workplace driven by empathy and support. Classic LifeCare was my first meaningful job, it gives my work a sense of purpose.”
A Positive and Supportive Workplace Culture
She expresses her appreciation for Classic LifeCare’s owner John Sherwood and all he has taught her. “I have a lot of respect for John and the way he runs his businesses. John has been a true mentor for me, his consistent encouragement has helped my growth and development. I am grateful for him placing his trust in me and all the opportunities he has given me.”
Dana speaks of how John creates a positive workplace culture: “He genuinely cares about all of our employees and their quality of life. I believe that John’s compassion within the company is reflected in how the company extends its care to its clients.”
She also notes that Classic LifeCare is the first workplace she has been in that is predominantly led by women. “Despite John being the owner, Classic is prominently women-led. Witnessing strong women heading each department is truly remarkable and inspiring.”
Dana’s journey at Classic LifeCare has been about embracing meaningful work, fostering growth, and being part of a compassionate workplace. Looking ahead, her vision for Classic LifeCare involves sustained growth, potential expansion, and increased brand recognition. The future looks bright, and Dana is excited about being a part of its evolution.
