Page 10 - GTA South BU Newsletter - Issue 4

Employee Spotlight
How long have you been with the business?
What roles have you had?
I have been with SDM for 7 years now. I started as a Pharmacy Assistant during the completion of my Doctor of Pharmacy degree. Upon graduation I worked as a Pharmacist with SDM for 6 months before taking on my most recent role as the Pharmacy Manager for SDM 1330 for 3 years.
Where do you live and work?
I was born and raised in Markham and currently reside there at this time. With respect to the new role as the Pharmacy Professional Services Enablement Specialist for GTA South I will be spending the majority of my time visiting stores within the BU. The remainder of the time will be spent working from home due to COVID-19 restrictions.
Can you tell us a bit about your family, including any pets?
I currently reside in Markham with my mother. I have one older sister who is close in age to me and works as an interior designer. Although she has moved out I continue to maintain a close relationship with her. In early 2020, my significant other and I welcomed a puppy (schnauzer-terrier mix) as a new addition to the family.
What's a little-known/interesting fact about yourself?
When I was in high school, I had previously worked for an electrical company and had the opportunity to work under an electrician. Through this experience, I worked on-site to help with the expansion of Millhaven Institution, a maximum security prison near Kingston, Ontario.
What’s your favourite thing about working for SDM?
My favourite thing about working for SDM is the culture that is fostered amongst colleagues. Through my previous roles I was able to make meaningful connections and build long lasting relationships with staff members. I look forward to building relationships with various members of the BU in this new role.
Jason Lo
Professional Services Enablement Specialist
What’s the most challenging or exciting priority for your area of the business this year?
The most exciting priority for myself in this new role would be the impact our team will have with respect to driving and growing professional services within individual SDM locations while taking into account challenges with COVID-19 restrictions.
Who’s your mentor – and what have they taught you?
My mentor is Akeel Jaffer with whom I have worked for as a Pharmacy Manager for an extensive period of time. Akeel has and continues to be a mentor to me in my personal and professional life. In the workplace he has taught me what it takes to operate a successful high volume pharmacy, and the importance of effective communication and leadership.
What’s the last thing you got for free with PC Optimum points?
The last thing I got for free with my PC Optimum points was a Nintendo Switch back in mid 2020. Unfortunately, this was an impulsive purchase as I seldom find time to play with the gaming device.
What PC or Life brand product do you almost always have on hand, at home or work?
Whenever I am out and away from home I always keep a travel size bottle of LB hand sanitizer with me. The hand sanitizer has been essential for myself especially when going to stores and various other establishments.
If people had warning labels, what would yours say?
With respect to pharmacy auxiliary labels mine would say Take With Food. I am a big foodie and enjoy trying different cuisines from various ethnic backgrounds. Living in GTA has allowed me to experience a lot of unique foods from across the world.