Congratulations are in order for Kin Choi, Assistant Deputy Minister (Human Resources), who was presented with the Award for Lifetime Achievement in the HR Industry at the prestigious 2019 Canadian HR Awards on September 12, 2019.

The Lifetime Achievement Award is the highest honour and most coveted award at the event. It recognizes an individual who has made an outstanding contribution to the industry through visionary people management strategies and leadership. Mr. Choi is the first public servant to receive the honour.

The Canadian HR Awards is the biggest event of its kind and celebrates the top employers, HR teams and professionals for their outstanding achievements and best practices.

Mr. Choi thanked his family for their support throughout his career and shared the spotlight with his team. “I share this award with my team and my colleagues. Thank you for your many contributions to our successes.”

Over the course of his career, Mr. Choi has worked in over 10 government departments and agencies‎ in senior executive roles responsible for policies and programs such as large citizen services programs, national security, regulatory compliance, and corporate and central agency roles. Mr. Choi has also held ADM roles at Employment and Social Development Canada, the Privy Council Office and Health Canada. “While this award recognizes the ADM for more than his work at the Department of National Defence, it goes without saying that it’s a reflection of his dedication towards people management,” said Peter Hooey, Director General Workplace Management. “He has had a profound impact on this organization.”

With this recognition, Mr. Choi joins the ranks of many distinguished HR professionals from the private sector. Past recipients include industry leaders such as Lorne Rubis, who was the first Chief Evangelist at ATB Financial and Zabeen Hirji, Chief Human Resources Officer with the Royal Bank of Canada.

For the full list of winners and more information, visit the