Multitasking manager earns Burnbrae’s 2017 Inspired Leadership Award

Administrator remarks on how John Wickert has excelled in two positions

John Wickert took on two jobs at Burnbrae Gardens – nutritional care manager and environmental services manager – and excelled at both, says April Faux.

April, the Campbellford long-term care home’s administrator, says she watched John “grow” in both positions, as he takes on any task that needs to be done to keep the departments ahead of the game. He was even working two cook shifts per week, she notes.

It’s for this reason April nominated John for the home’s 2017 Inspired Leadership Award.

“John comes to Burnbrae each day with a smile on his face; he always leads by example and he does not hesitate to jump in and help in any area when needed,” April said n her nomination.

“John’s departments both run very smoothly, and he is very independent in running his departments. John does not come to me for solutions; he always has a solution to a problem before coming to inform me.”

Adding to the dedication John shows to his job, April says he is also a “great team player” and makes a point of getting to know every resident. He is well-versed in the Behavioural Supports Ontario (BSO) program and uses BSO interventions to enhance quality of life for residents, she added.

He shows leadership in other ways, too.

“John follows all OMNI policies and procedures, is a lead on the infection-control committee and he takes his job very serious,” April said.

“I am very proud of how John has transformed into a powerful leader in our home, and I appreciate all that he does.”

John is now working at Springdale Country Manor, replacing Ann Weldon, who recently retired as the Peterborough-area long-term care home’s nutritional care manager.

OMNI Health Care’s Inspired Leadership Award is presented to staff members from each of the organization’s 18 long-term care homes. The accolade recognizes people who demonstrate OMNI’s mission, vision and values. Inspired Leaders also possess outstanding leadership skills and are committed to their work.

OMNI announced this year’s recipients of the Everyday Hero, Inspired Leadership and Elisabeth Hinton Memorial awards at the Quality Forum in Calabogie, Ont., in May.

Managers from OMNI’s long-term care homes were presented with the names of the award winners. Homes are presenting the awards during their own ceremonies.

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