Karen Watt
CPC, CEO - Executive
Search Services
As is the case for so many of us in this industry, Karen Watt started her second career in the recruiting business, launching Excel Personnel in 1992, and ensuring its success with her wealth of expertise in the field of human resources.
Since day one, she’s loved being able to support local businesses by sourcing the best possible candidates to fill a variety of positions, from janitors to general managers, across nearly every industry.
Now celebrating more than 30 years in business, Karen has been successful in opening branch offices in Kamloops, Kelowna, Prince George, and Terrace/Kitimat, allowing her to better serve our clients, and opening up northern B.C. to local professional recruiters.
When she’s not in the office answering your calls, you’ll find Karen at training seminars or travelling to meet clients around North America.
In her free time, Karen prefers to be by the water, regardless of whether it’s a lake, a river, or an ocean, and she loves boating to her rustic cabin on Shuswap Lake, spending time renovating the cabin, and enjoying the water while boating with friends.
Joan Hannestad
Accounting
Director
Joan joined Excel Personnel in 2017, has been working in the accounting field for more than 25 years, and is a highly skilled full-cycle bookkeeper with expertise in Sage 50 accounting software.
She studied accounting at the British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) and is available to answer any questions you may have regarding your payroll or invoices received.
When she’s not crunching numbers, Joan likes to travel to beaches around the world. Here at home, one of our staff members recently taught her how to crochet, and together they have made many Christmas and birthday gifts for family and friends.
Beverley Proteau
Talent Acquisition
Specialist
Beverley joined Excel Personnel in 2020, and she currently heads up our Prince George and northern B.C. business.
She has a bachelor’s degree in business administration, with a keen interest in the field of human resources, particularly when it comes to recruitment, selection, and retention.
Beverley has lived in Prince George for 15 years and has met many wonderful people during her time there. Her role as the talent acquisition specialist for Prince George and northern B.C. has put her knowledge of this region, and its diversity of cultures, to good use.
She loves working with clients and candidates alike to ensure that both parties are happy, so don’t hesitate to contact her for all your staffing needs.
In her free time, she loves decorating, hiking, boating, and travelling. Beverley has hiked through many national parks, including Arches, Bryce Canyon, and Zion in Utah. She loves these kinds of desert landscapes, as she feels they are beautiful and full of surprises.
Linda Burge
Administrator
Linda joined Excel Personnel in 2022 as our administrator, with more than 25 years of experience in business administration and accounting.
She brings a sparkling personality to our team and is the first person you’ll see or hear on the phone when calling or visiting Excel Personnel.
Linda is here to answer all your questions, make sure you have your sign-on package, submit your timesheets, and ensure you get paid.
She is an amazing addition to our team, and her warm and welcoming personality makes it a pleasure to come to work.