Suggestions
Angela Dawson
Director, Total Rewards at Shopify
Professional Background
Angela Dawson is a seasoned professional in the field of Human Resource Management, specializing in Total Rewards and compensation strategies. With an impressive career dedicated to enhancing employee experiences and organizational effectiveness, Angela has made significant strides in her roles at leading tech companies, particularly Shopify and BlackBerry.
Having initially embarked on her career at BlackBerry, Angela held a series of increasingly responsible positions that allowed her to develop a keen understanding of global rewards programs. Starting as a Global Recognition Project Assistant, she quickly progressed to roles such as Recognition Programs Analyst and Senior Global Rewards Analyst. In these positions, she focused on creating innovative recognition frameworks that not only motivated employees but also aligned with the company’s strategic goals.
Angela’s expertise and passion for human resources led her to Shopify, where she has made a transformative impact. Beginning as a Compensation and Benefits Specialist, she transitioned to a Talent Success Specialist role, where she focused on creating successful talent management strategies. Her steadfast dedication and insightful contributions in the realm of employee rewards and compensation propelled her into senior positions, culminating in her current role as Director of Total Rewards. In this capacity, Angela leads comprehensive total rewards strategies that underpin Shopify's commitment to employee satisfaction and retention, fostering a culture where employees feel valued and rewarded for their hard work.
Education and Achievements
Angela Dawson is academically equipped with a strong educational foundation. She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in Psychology from Brock University, where she developed an understanding of human behavior, communication, and motivational factors that play a crucial role in workplace dynamics.
Further enhancing her qualifications, she pursued a Post Graduate Program in Human Resource Management (Honors) at George Brown College. This advanced education has enabled her to apply theoretical knowledge to practical HR challenges, equipping her to design effective compensation and benefits programs that support business objectives and employee well-being.
Her journey through academia and professional growth has equipped her with a robust skill set that encompasses analytical thinking, strategic planning, and a deep comprehension of total rewards systems. Angela is recognized not only for her technical acumen but also for her collaborative leadership style and mentoring capabilities, which inspire her teams to excel.
Achievements
Angela Dawson has achieved numerous accolades throughout her career, positioning her as a thought leader in the realm of Total Rewards. Her most notable accomplishments include:
- Director, Total Rewards at Shopify: As the leader in this role, Angela is at the forefront of designing, implementing, and overseeing comprehensive total rewards programs that are vital to attracting, retaining, and engaging top talent.
- Comprehensive Strategy Development: Angela has pioneered initiatives that successfully align compensation packages with organizational goals, ensuring they are competitive within the marketplace while also being equitable across various employee demographics.
- Employee Recognition Programs: She has played a crucial role in developing and launching recognition programs that celebrate employee contributions, fostering a sense of belonging and community within the company.
- Advancements in Compensation Models: Throughout her career, she has contributed to the refinement of compensation models that are transparent, fair, and motivating, which have been key to enhancing employee trust and satisfaction.
Overall, Angela Dawson exemplifies the qualities of an effective leader in Human Resources, with a focus on creating strategic solutions to complex challenges. Her educational background and extensive hands-on experience position her as a valuable asset in any organization that aims to prioritize its workforce and leverage human capital for sustained success.

