Without question, there are thousands of good employers across Atlantic Canada. This competition, however, celebrates the best of the best, indicating that the winners are organizations offering the highest degree of quality employment.

What makes them so special? In the opinion of this year’s judges, it’s a strategic combination of benefits both tangible and cultural. It’s about valuing people in their roles, such that they understand the importance of their contribution to the broader organization and their community. And reward them appropriately.

Judge Andrea Bird, board chair of CPHR-P.E.I. and executive director of the P.E.I. Nurses’ Union, said she was excited to see companies remodeling traditional business practises in their efforts to retain and recruit employees. “The quality of the applications demonstrates that every company, whether small or large, is focusing on what they offer their employees, their community and the people they serve.”

Nicole Reynard agreed, noting the overall quality of applicants was exceptional. Reynard—board member with CPHR-N.L. and manager of HR Data and Analytics at UCLA Health—said applicants showcased thoughtful investments in people, modern workplaces and strong cultural practices.

Board chair of CPHR-N.S. and recently appointed VP of People, Culture and Belonging with Halifax International Airport Authority, Roshanak Sadeghi-Zadeh, said one theme that really stood out to her during the judging process was the emphasis on employee well-being and flexibility. “Many applicants highlighted initiatives around mental health support, hybrid work models and creating inclusive environments. There’s a clear trend toward prioritizing belonging and engagement as strategic drivers, not just HR programs, policies and processes.”

The bottom line? Atlantic Canada’s 2026 Best Places to Work award winners recognize that their employees are not just workers—they’re people with a diverse suite of talents that can help courageous organizations grow and prosper. In the words of judge Tanya Chapman, board chair of CPHR-N.B. and president/CEO of The Chapman Group: “Employers who provide whole-person offerings are demonstrating what it means to be an employer of choice.”

Congratulations to all of this year’s honorees.

COMPILED BY ALEC BRUCE AND DAWN CHAFE  //  SUBMITTED PHOTOS

About this year’s competition:

For 2026, there are 20 winners chosen from 255 nominees for their excellence across nine judging categories:

• Inclusivity and accessibility
• Corporate culture
• Employee engagement
• Environmental, social, governance
• Health benefits
• Financial compensation
• Professional development
• Vacation, time off
• Other (“extras” not captured above)

Think you have a Best Place to Work in Atlantic Canada? It’s never too early to get started on your nomination for the 2027 competition.
Click here to submit a nomination for the 2027 competition.

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