About Rebecca

Grounded in real life.

I'm a working professional, a Director of People & Culture, and a mom raising a family right here in our community. My work has always been about people; building teams, solving problems, and delivering real results.

Ward 6 isn't just where I live, it's where I grew up. I attended Mary Phelan Elementary School and Centennial High School (maiden name Thomas), and these streets, neighbours, and community spaces shaped who I am. I moved away for post-secondary education, then came back to Guelph, as so many of us do. My husband and I bought our first home in the Summerfield/Arkell area before moving back to Kortright Hills to raise our family. I'm now raising two kids under 10 who are involved in youth activities all around the city.

Growing up, entrepreneurship wasn't just a concept, it was the dinner table conversation. My parents owned and operated a small business at Stone Road Mall for over 40 years. Watching them build something meaningful from the ground up, serve their customers with care, and stay rooted in the community shaped my values. I understand what it takes to show up every single day.

Those values are simple: integrity, hard work, accountability, and authenticity.

Leadership isn't about knowing everything, it's about bringing the right people together to make the best decisions.

Why I ran

Last year, during the Ward 6 appointment process, I saw things I hadn't expected. It changed my perspective. Those who know me know I have high expectations, not only of myself but of the people around me. I believe those same standards of integrity, accountability, and communication should exist at city hall. Once it became clear that city hall needed a culture shift, sitting on the sidelines wasn't an option for me.

Work

Director of People & Culture

Sutherland Insurance, Guelph. 2018 to present. People strategy, recruitment, workplace culture, employee relations, philanthropy and organizational development for a long-standing family-owned business serving the Guelph community.

Retail and operations leadership

ANN INC., LOFT, Mendocino. Leadership and management roles overseeing team performance, operations, store openings, recruitment, customer experience and business growth.

My values

Integrity

I say what I mean and follow through. No hidden agendas, just honest representation.

Accountability

Leadership means owning your decisions. I'll always be accountable to the people of Ward 6.

Hard work

I've built my career by rolling up my sleeves. That same commitment comes with me to Council.

Authenticity

I won't tell you what you want to hear. I'll tell you the truth and work with you on real solutions.