In the beating heart of thriving businesses, it’s the dedicated individuals who make the difference. Join us as we introduce you to the team at Human Resource Dynamics in Cairns, an HR company specialising in versatile staffing solutions. Take a peek behind the scenes as we explore their sometimes unusual quirks and their invaluable contributions to the HR landscape.

Deanne Baker – General Manager Workplace Advice

Fun facts about Deanne: Gym instructor in her spare time, and strangely, she’s terrified of swimming in waters where she can’t see the bottom, despite living in FNQ.

Favourite go-to spot in FNQ: Anywhere in the bush - can’t beat a campfire and a cold beer - or anywhere there is live music.

Meet Deanne, an HR specialist with 20+ years of experience who thrives on complexity and loves to find solutions where employers can’t see one.

Deanne focusses on intricate HR matters, conflict resolution, workplace investigations, Fair Work representation, and mentoring the HR Dynamics team for quality client service.

She thrives on witnessing businesses flourish with proud employees. In her own words, she's often on the “gnarly side of HR”, finding resolutions that propel people forward.

At HR Dynamics, Deanne enjoys the supportive and compassionate team atmosphere, despite the high-paced, emotive environment they navigate daily. Laughter, camaraderie, and memorable Christmas parties keep their spirits high.

Shannen Fowler – HR Consultant

Fun fact about Shannen: has a mild phobia of cats and often views them as sinister, feeling apprehensive when they fix their gaze on her.

Favourite go-to spot in FNQ: Stoney Creek Falls or Ellis Beach.

Fresh out of James Cook University in 2022, Shannen was eager to join HR Dynamics, recognising it as an excellent opportunity to gain exposure and insight into the diverse aspects of HR.

Shannen’s role involves managing HR Packages, offering essential HR documents for businesses to ensure Fair Work compliance. 

She finds great reward in educating and offering solutions to employers in the complex HR landscape, relishing the opportunity to work with diverse industries and delve into the intricacies of HR within their businesses.

Teneal Donaldson – Senior HR Consultant

Fun fact about Teneal: Years ago, at a rodeo, she miraculously landed on her feet after getting bucked off his sister’s horse during a double ride, avoiding an embarrassing fall.

Favourite go-to spot in FNQ: Loves spending time at her parent’s property in the Douglas Shire and the freedom of riding a horse on the beach. 

Teneal, originally from Mossman but now based in Cairns, has been part of the HR Dynamics team for over 8 years. 

While enjoying city life, she still finds solace driving through the Raintrees in Mossman, a place that feels like home.

In her role, Teneal engages with various aspects of human resources, and in recent years, she has taken on the role of an embedded HR consultant, providing consistent support to several clients.

Her passion lies in equipping businesses and their supervisors/managers with HR knowledge and confidence, ensuring compliance with employment legislation whilst also implementing best practice HR initiatives.

Peter Grant – HR Consultant

Fun fact about Peter: He recently returned to teaching group fitness classes with Deanne, a rewarding challenge after years away, requiring him to rediscover his rhythm.

Favourite go-to spot in FNQ: Loves the Tablelands, especially around Atherton and Malanda, where there's endless exploration. He dreams of owning acreage there with a variety of animals, providing a haven for his dogs.

Peter is the newest recruit to the team in Cairns, where he is currently a jack of all trades, learning the ropes and filling all the gaps. 

Previously, he owned a successful remedial massage business in Cairns for 7.5 years. 

His passion for HR stems from his experience as a business owner, where he realised the significance of sound HR practices in guiding employment decisions, managing performance, and overall business reinforcement.

Caitlin Donigi – HR Consultant

Fun fact about Caitlin: Can wiggle her ears.

Favourite go-to spot in FNQ: Hands down Cape Tribulation.

Caitlin's global journey, from Papua New Guinea to Germany, New York, and various Australian regions, eventually led her to the far north, drawn by the tropical environment reminiscent of her early years in Papua New Guinea.

In her role as a consultant with HR Dynamics for over three and a half years, she provides comprehensive HR solutions, including recruitment support, award advice, employment contract drafting, policy creation, training, and HR guidance. 

Caitlin finds fulfilment in creating positive HR change, fuelled by the profound impact on individuals and organisations. 

Her dedication lies in assisting people in cultivating constructive work environments and tackling the ever-evolving challenges within the industry.